Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

When designing your treatment plan, your facial plastic surgeon will decide whether an open vs. closed rhinoplasty is right for you. Both approaches can give you the attractive cosmetic results and functional breathing improvements you desire, so how does your surgeon determine the best technique for you? Find out which rhinoplasty technique aligns best with your needs below.

What Is Open Rhinoplasty?

Open rhinoplasty allows your facial plastic surgeon better visibility and access to the underlying nasal structures. It involves a small incision across the strip of tissue between the nostrils, called the columella.

Is Open Rhinoplasty Right for Me?

The open technique facilitates greater fine-tuning and more accurate adjustments to the delicate internal nasal anatomy. It is ideal for complex cases, such as revision rhinoplasty or surgeries requiring significant reshaping or reconstruction. Facial plastic surgeons also prefer the open approach during ethnic rhinoplasty procedures when the goal is to refine the nose while preserving ethnic characteristics.

However, here’s what else you need to know about open rhinoplasty. The first is external scarring. The incision is small and typically heals inconspicuously, but there is a minimal risk of visible scarring.

The second consideration is the recovery time needed after surgery. Open rhinoplasty is a longer and more involved procedure than the closed approach, so it may require a longer recovery period. For a detailed comparison, please read our blog post on open vs. closed rhinoplasty recovery.

What Is Closed Rhinoplasty?

Otherwise known as endonasal rhinoplasty, closed rhinoplasty uses incisions within the nostrils. This approach is less invasive and may result in slightly shorter recovery times, primarily related to less swelling of nasal skin at the tip of the nose.

Is Closed Rhinoplasty Right for Me?

Closed rhinoplasty uses internal incisions, thereby eliminating visible scarring. Patients have less time in surgery and often heal slightly faster and with less swelling. However, it limits access to and visualization of some nasal structures, making it unsuitable for patients requiring extensive reshaping or correction.

While patients can typically enjoy their refined noses for many years—regardless of technique—closed rhinoplasty is often better for patients for whom long-term stabilization of the nasal anatomy is not an acute concern. Learn more about how long your rhinoplasty will last.

Choosing the Right Approach

The choice between open and closed rhinoplasty depends on various factors, including the complexity of the case, the desired outcomes, and your surgeon’s expertise. Dr. Todd Hobgood, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, specializes in both techniques and can recommend the best approach for your unique needs.

To see what both techniques can achieve, visit our rhinoplasty before-and-after gallery. Looking at real-life results can provide valuable insights and help you make a well-informed decision that reflects your goals.

Ready To Talk With Dr. Hobgood?

If you are ready to discuss your nasal refinement options with a top rhinoplasty surgeon, please request a consultation or call Hobgood Facial Plastic Surgery at (480) 214-9955 to get started.