What’s the difference between an open and closed rhinoplasty?

One of the most important choices you’ll have to make when thinking about nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, is whether to take an open or closed approach. Board-certified Dallas plastic surgeon Dr. Solomon Azouz is committed to educating you about these choices so you may decide which one could be ideal for your particular situation.

What is a Rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty aims to enhance the nose’s look and functionality. It will help you set reasonable expectations and get ready for recovery if you know the distinctions between open and closed rhinoplasty, whether your goals are to improve the appearance of your nasal profile, treat any functional difficulties, or correct a deviated septum.

Open Rhinoplasty

The “open rhinoplasty” involves making an exterior incision across the columella, the thin tissue strip that divides the nostrils. By using this technique, Dr. Azouz can directly reach the nasal structures beneath the skin.

Benefits of an Open Rhinoplasty:

1. Improved Visualization: Dr. Azouz can accomplish more accuracy with direct access, particularly in difficult situations with significant nose contouring.
2. Greater Control: With more precise adjustments and corrections made possible by the visibility, possibly more accurate results can be obtained.
3. Better for Complex Cases: Suitable for patients who need revision rhinoplasty, substantial reshaping, or structural modifications.

Recovery from open rhinoplasty:

1. Swelling and Bruising: Initially, there may be more noticeable swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose. These symptoms should go away in a week or two.
2. Extended Healing Period: Recovery from an open rhinoplasty may take a little longer in comparison to a closed rhinoplasty, with most swelling going away in 6–8 weeks. It could take up to a year for the full effects to show.
3. Scarring: Although Dr. Azouz takes great care to prevent scarring, a small, unnoticeable scar will remain at the base of the columella.

Closed Rhinoplasty

With a closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nose, so there are no visible scars on the outside. This method can be perfect for minor modifications or less complicated treatments because it is less intrusive.

Benefits of Closed Rhinoplasty:

1. No External Scarring: Following surgery, there are no discernible scars because all incisions are inside.
2. Less Swelling and Bruising: In comparison to open rhinoplasty, the recovery period often entails less swelling and bruising.
3. Shorter Recovery Period: Most patients experience a noticeable improvement in as little as 1-2 weeks, and full effects usually show up in a few months. This indicates a quicker recovery period.

Recovery from closed rhinoplasty generally includes:

1. Minimal Swelling: Compared to an open rhinoplasty, minimal swelling and bruising are typically expected but not as severe.
2. Quicker Healing: There is frequently less discomfort and downtime throughout the healing process.

Which Approach is Right for You?

The decision between an open or closed rhinoplasty is based on a number of variables, including the intricacy of the operation, your individual objectives, and the expert advice of Dr. Azouz. During your consultation, Dr. Azouz will assess the structure of your nose and discuss the best course of action to reach your goals while guaranteeing the safest and most efficient course of care.

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Azouz

Every rhinoplasty procedure, whether open or closed, has pros and cons of its own. Being aware of these variations will enable you to make an informed choice regarding your nose surgery. Dallas’s most well-known board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Solomon Azouz, is dedicated to helping you at every stage and making sure you get the greatest outcomes. Contact us online or call us at (972) 702-8888 to schedule your consultation today. This is where your path to a more sophisticated and refreshed nasal profile begins!

Written by Anita Chaiprasert and Rhiya Patel on behalf of Azouz Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery