Rhinoplasty is famously one of the most complicated plastic surgeries to perform. The structure of the nose is fragile, so a surgeon must be deliberate and exercise extreme attention to detail while making any adjustment. Moreover, because rhinoplasty is customized to address each patient’s wishes (straightening the nose, removing a bump, changing the width, adjusting nostril size, altering the projection of the nasal tip, shrinking the overall size, etc.), the surgeon must have the experience and knowledge to achieve the desired results.
Surgeons use two main approaches to rhinoplasty: open and closed. In this blog, Miami plastic surgeon Dr. Ary Krau discusses the primary differences between these procedures.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty, or external rhinoplasty, is performed with an incision on the columella (AKA the tissue that separates the nostrils). This entry point offers better access to the cartilage and bones in the nose, making it easier to restructure the nose. Over time, the scar on the columella fades to the point of being barely noticeable.
Closed Rhinoplasty
Meanwhile, closed rhinoplasty, or endonasal rhinoplasty, is done with all incisions made inside the nostrils. This approach is not only less invasive, but also leaves no visible scarring — a definite perk for most patients. By avoiding a columellar incision, the patient tends to experience less swelling and therefore enjoys a briefer recovery period.
Dr. Krau’s Philosophy
When it comes to rhinoplasty, Dr. Krau has a different perspective on the open and closed debate than many surgeons. As he sees it, closed rhinoplasty is the preferable option in almost all nose reshaping procedures. Surgeons undoubtedly have an easier time performing open rhinoplasty, but that ease does not necessarily benefit the patient.
Excellent surgeons can produce amazing results with closed rhinoplasty even if the technique required is more advanced. Patients who want an easier recovery and no visible scarring ought to look for a top surgeon who does not quickly push open rhinoplasty as the correct choice.
With that said, Dr. Krau does sometimes perform open rhinoplasty when the situation warrants this approach. Difficult or nuanced cases — especially revision rhinoplasty — may require an incision on the columella to tackle the problems at hand. During a consultation, Dr. Krau is upfront about when it is necessary to do that so that the patient can set expectations accordingly.
Discuss Rhinoplasty with an Expert
Patients travel from around the world to receive treatment from Dr. Krau because of his ability to achieve attractive, transformative surgical results. If you are interested in reshaping or restructuring your nose with an easier recovery period, please contact Dr. Krau’s office at (305) 861-6881 to arrange a consultation.