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Open or Closed Rhinoplasty: Which Is Right for Me?

When designing a surgical plan for rhinoplasty, plastic surgeons must choose between open and closed techniques. Both of these options offer a number of benefits. Before you come to our office in The Woodlands for a nasal surgery consultation with Dr. Climov, it’s important to develop a better understanding of your options.

What Is Open Rhinoplasty?

The open rhinoplasty technique involves first making an incision across the strip of skin that separates the nostrils. This strip is known as the columella. Additional incisions will also be made inside the nose during the procedure.

Once the trans-columellar incision has been made, Dr. Climov is able to gently lift the skin of the nose, revealing the underlying tissues. After Dr. Climov has made the required changes to the nasal architecture, he carefully redrapes the skin of the nose.

What Is Closed Rhinoplasty?

Closed, or endonasal, rhinoplasty is a less invasive approach that involves creating tiny incisions inside the nostrils. No external incisions are needed, and the skin of the nose remains in place throughout the procedure.

Which Rhinoplasty Technique Is Better for Me?

The right nasal surgery technique for you will depend on the specifics of your case. Complexity plays a major factor in the decision.

Open rhinoplasty is best for more complex cases, since it provides much greater access for the plastic surgeon. This is vital for correction of issues like major or intricate asymmetry, a cleft lip, and a cleft palate. Additionally, if cartilage grafts are required, open rhinoplasty is the ideal choice, since it allows for more precise graft placement.

Open rhinoplasty allows for greatly increased visibility of the nasal anatomy, helping the surgeon understand exactly what to expect. Since open rhinoplasty ensures the most comprehensive view, it’s also the best option for ensuring symmetry and precision.

Closed rhinoplasty is best for simpler cases, since these typically require less access to the nasal architecture. These may include correcting a deviated septum or a crooked nose, addressing a dorsal hump, or correcting a wide nose. It’s also an excellent option for correcting minor or moderate asymmetries, making changes to the bridge of the nose, addressing nasal tip issues, and correcting various breathing problems.

Closed rhinoplasty is better for patients who want to completely avoid any chance of post-surgical marks, since the incisions are made within the nostrils. It is also an ideal approach for patients who are interested in a shorter and more comfortable healing period. Because less tissue trauma is typically required, it results in less bruising and swelling.

Learn More About Your Rhinoplasty Options

To learn about which rhinoplasty technique is best for your nose job, set up a consultation with Dr. Mihail Climov. Our office in The Woodlands isn’t far from Market Street’s luxury boutiques, and it’s a short drive to The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion. Our office in Spring isn’t far from the Windrose Golf Club and Bouncin’ Bears Texas family fun center. Arrange your consultation today.

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