Rhinoplasty - Should You Choose Open Vs Closed Rhinoplasty?
If you are looking for a way to improve the appearance of your nose, you may want to consider a rhinoplasty. It may have been broken before, or just a shape that you are not happy with and you want to change it. However, you may not be aware that there are two procedures that you can have to fix any problems that you have with your nose. Once you learn the difference between open vs closed rhinoplasty, you will know which procedure is best for you.
What Is A Closed Rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty is the perfect solution for those who do not want to deal with any scarring after the procedure is over. An incision is made, but the surgeon performs the procedure through the nostrils instead of accessing the cartilage directly. The surgeon is, however, able to reshape the nose and the patient does not have to deal with any exterior scarring. Other benefits include:
- Less recovery time
- Less pain
- Reduced swelling
What Is An Open Rhinoplasty?
An open rhinoplasty is a technique surgeons use and it is defined as an incision made below the nostrils. The entire area is opened for the surgeon to access. This is the process that surgeons prefer because it allows them to have the most access to the nose. The surgeon has more freedom, and this is often necessary if the case is severe.
Unfortunately, many patients do not choose to opt for this type of rhinoplasty because it does leave a small scar on the nose’s tip. A closed rhinoplasty leaves a scar on the inside of the nose only. Another disadvantage to an open rhinoplasty is that a patient does not know how much the nose will contract during the recovery period.
With this type of surgery, patients will have to deal with more swelling and a longer recovery time because the surgery is more invasive.
Both of these surgeries are performed in hospitals as in patient procedures. A patient is placed under either general or local anesthesia by a plastic surgeon who is board certified. The entire procedure is typically completed within three hours.
Conditions That May Warrant A Rhinoplasty
Cosmetic issues are not the only reasons why a person may want to have a rhinoplasty. Some people have a condition in their nasal region called a deviated septum. This condition can cause a person to have problems breathing. However, the condition can be corrected through a rhinoplasty. Patients should discuss their options with the surgeon during the first consultation.
Another procedure that can be performed with a rhinoplasty is a chin implant enhancement. This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a rhinoplasty to make a person’s face more balanced.
You may have your preferred method of surgery in mind, but it is still best to speak with your surgeon to find out the best procedure for your specific needs. Many surgeons are hesitant to perform closed rhinoplastys because of the limited movement and vision.
It does not matter the type of surgery you plan to have, you can prepare the same. You should know that it can take up to a year for the changes to settle in. Although the swelling will subside after a few months, it will take longer for the bones and cartilage to heal.
