Open Vs Closed Rhinoplasty

open vs closed rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that enhances the nasal proportions, corrects nasal asymmetry and in the process corrects breathing problems.

Terms used in  Rhinoplasty

  • Revision rhinoplasty. Addresses functional and/or aesthetic concerns of the nose that affect an individual following an initial rhinoplasty.
  • Primary rhinoplasty. Helps in correcting issues and enhances the facial appearance of an individual without sacrificing their distinct ethnic facial features.
  • Male rhinoplasty. Reshapes and treats the male nose while maintaining its masculinity.

There are two different surgical approaches to rhinoplasty: open and closed rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty involves the incisions being placed within the nostrils. Open rhinoplasty on the other hand involves making incisions on the columella which is the fleshy column between the nostrils.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty, also known as endonasal rhinoplasty is performed by making all the incisions to be completely hidden within the nostrils. This technique is less invasive and therefore there will be no visible scarring. Closed rhinoplasty is more appropriate for minor corrections and reshaping.

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty, also known as external rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that involves making a small incision on the columella. It is usually done under general anesthesia or twilight sedation. This technique allows for easy access to the cartilage structure and the underlying bone. The main benefit of the open rhinoplasty technique is the accuracy of reshaping the nose to achieve desired nose contour. The open rhinoplasty approach allows for a better view of the corrections that need to be made as well as ease for intricate grafting/suturing as it grants the Plastic Surgeon access to the entire nose structure. This technique is often required for revision rhinoplasty so as to clearly access the nose structures that have been tampered with. It is usually hard to detect the resulting scarring as the incisions are usually well hidden.

Which Rhinoplasty Technique is Better?

Open and closed rhinoplasties are different but none is superior to the other. Once your Plastic Surgeon ascertains that you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty by performing a comprehensive patient analysis, he/she will then determine which approach can deliver the optimal results. Each individual is unique, so is his/her nose, hence each rhinoplasty procedure varies depending on their desired results.

In addition to creating facial harmony and improving nasal function, rhinoplasty also treats the following:

  • Short, bulbous, upturned nasal tip
  • Nose that is too wide or narrow
  • Wide or flaring nostrils
  • Dorsal hump
  • Nasal bridge that is too low or high
  • Droopy, long, crooked or upturned nose
  • Under-projected or asymmetrical nose
  • Hanging columella
  • Disproportionate nostrils

Book Your Appointment for a Consultation

Would you like to understand what options are available for Rhinoplasty in Dubai? Meet one of our experts at Al Shunnar Plastic Surgery for a personal consultation to develop a tailor-made plan for you. Contact us or Book an appointment and our patient care coordinators will identify the most suitable expert for you.