The rhinoplasty, or “nose job,” is rated among scientific journals and renowned plastic surgeons as one of the most challenging procedures for surgeons to master. The procedure requires a deep understanding of the complexities of nasal anatomy as well as skills and confidence in the surgical maneuvers required to improve both nasal function and appearance.
It is important to give serious consideration to all aspects of rhinoplasty before deciding to have the procedure. After all, your nose is the centerpiece of your face, meaning that choosing the right surgeon and the right technique are vital to attaining the desired outcomes.
There are two primary techniques that you and your surgeon may consider when discussing your options for rhinoplasty: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. Every individual has different goals when pursuing cosmetic treatments, which means that one technique is not superior to another.
Dr. Robert Graper is an expert in both the open and closed rhinoplasty techniques. If you are interested in pursuing this procedure, he will work closely with you to determine which of these approaches is better suited to your unique situation and goals.
What Is Open Rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty is a surgical technique that may be used to address both cosmetic and functional deficits of the nose. This technique, also referred to as external rhinoplasty, is performed by creating a small, Z-shaped incision on the underside of the nose between the two nostrils. The incision provides greater access to the underlying bone and cartilage structure inside the nose.
The open technique may take longer than the closed and leaves a small scar that will eventually fade. Patients can expect noticeable swelling for a couple of weeks, and some residual swelling may persist for months or even up to a year. However, in the hands of cosmetic surgeon Dr. Robert Graper, open rhinoplasty provides satisfactory outcomes with few to no complications.
In a small study published in March 2020, 100% of patients cited improvements in breathing and overall nasal functions as well as moderate to complete satisfaction with the outcomes of their open rhinoplasty.
What Is Closed Rhinoplasty?
During a closed rhinoplasty, all surgical incisions are made inside a patient’s nose, reducing external visible scarring. This option, also referred to as endonasal rhinoplasty, may be recommended for patients that do not require extensive revision or reconstruction of the nose.
With this technique, corrections may be made to the nasal cartilage, bone and septum with discreet nasal incisions. Aside from the hidden incision lines, recovery times with a closed rhinoplasty are often shorter when compared to an open rhinoplasty.
Which Is Best for You: Open or Closed Rhinoplasty?
The best rhinoplasty technique for you is not merely a matter of preference. Factors that should be considered include but are not limited to:
- Intrinsic anatomy of the patient
- Limitations or expansions offered by each surgical option
- Surgical control offered by the selected technique
There is limited data available directly comparing the two techniques, but most research suggests that the type and extent of correction required is the greatest determining factor when determining which technique will yield optimal results.
A 2020 study, published in the Plastic Reconstructive Global Open, assessed the outcomes of 65 rhinoplasty patients with 23% undergoing open rhinoplasty and 77% undergoing closed rhinoplasty. The research did not find a statistical difference in rates of satisfaction among the patients, suggesting that one technique should not become standard over the other.
Dr. Graper will spend time with you during your consultation to review your medical history, examine the structure of your nose, assess any nasal airway problems, as well as photograph your nose and discuss the specific aspects that you would like to change. This information will allow our team to make a diagnosis and create a treatment plan to support your goals, including the optimal rhinoplasty technique. Request more information about rhinoplasty in Charlotte or schedule a consultation today by calling 704-375-7111.