Open or Closed Rhinoplasty—What Is the Difference?
Rhinoplasty may be performed through an open or closed surgical approach. Neither technique is automatically better for every patient.
The appropriate approach depends on your anatomy, the changes being considered, and the level of access the surgeon requires.
What Is Closed Rhinoplasty?
With closed rhinoplasty, the surgical incisions are placed inside the nostrils.
Because there is no external incision between the nostrils, this approach avoids an external scar. It may be appropriate for selected patients whose desired changes can be performed effectively through internal incisions.
However, closed rhinoplasty does not suit every case. The amount of access and visibility is more limited than with an open approach.
What Is Open Rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty involves incisions inside the nose and a small additional incision across the columella—the tissue separating the nostrils.
This allows the surgeon to lift the nasal skin carefully and gain greater access to the underlying bone and cartilage.
An open approach may be recommended when detailed tip work, structural reconstruction, grafting, or a more complex correction is required.
When an external incision is necessary, it is carefully positioned and closed to help it heal as discreetly as possible. Scar appearance still varies between patients.
What Can Be Included in Rhinoplasty?
Depending on your treatment plan, the procedure may involve:
- Refining or supporting the nasal tip
- Reshaping the nasal bridge
- Reducing a prominent hump
- Straightening an uneven nose
- Adjusting wide nostrils
- Using cartilage to provide structural support
- Using an appropriate implant for selected cases
- Correcting certain internal structural concerns
The materials and techniques recommended will depend on your needs. One approach should not be promoted as the best choice for every patient.
Will You Need a Graft or Implant?
Some rhinoplasty procedures require additional material to create height, definition, or structural support.
Depending on your anatomy and surgical plan, the doctor may discuss:
- Cartilage taken from an appropriate area of your body
- A medically appropriate implant
- A combination of techniques
Each option has potential benefits, limitations, and risks. Your doctor should explain why a particular material is being recommended for your case.
How Will NDV MED Choose the Approach?
The NDV MED doctors will consider:
- The changes you want
- Your existing nasal structure
- Your skin and cartilage characteristics
- Any previous nasal procedures
- Functional or breathing concerns
- The complexity of the proposed correction
- The benefits and limitations of each technique
Before deciding whether to proceed, you will receive an explanation of:
- The recommended surgical approach
- Why it may be appropriate for you
- Where the incisions may be placed
- Whether a graft or implant may be needed
- The potential risks and limitations
- What to expect during recovery
You should understand your surgical plan before surgery is scheduled.
Not Sure Which Approach You Need?
You do not have to make that decision by yourself.
Schedule a Rhinoplasty Assessment at NDV MED ↗
The appropriate surgical technique can only be recommended following an examination and medical consultation.