Is closed rhinoplasty safer than opened?

Thank you for your question.  This is commonly asked, and unfortunately, a lot of misinformation exist.First off, the terminology is incorrectly used by many surgeons.  The best way to talk about these approaches is endonasal ("closed") versus external ("open").  The term 'closed' is incorrect because there are, in fact, multiple incisions inside the nose, and in many cases it can be very destructive.   Unfortunately, the term 'closed' is often used as a marketing tool.What is more important is the experience of any given surgeon with any given technique, and the specifics of what is necessary in any given rhinoplasty.  It may be more prudent for surgeon X to perform an endonasal rhinoplasty for a given type of rhinoplasty, while surgeon Y may get safe, effective results using an external technique.  In other words, it is better to focus on actual results from a given surgeon rather than choosing a surgeon base on technique rather than results.Hope this helps you and others with similar questions.Best,Dr. Most

There is a debate amongst surgeons about which approach for nasal surgery is better, an open or closed approach. The difference is a small incision along the base of the columella, which often heals imperceptible. Given the choice of an open or closed approach depends on your surgeon and his/her comfort with each technique, as well as his/her ability to produce the results you desire. Because procedures are customized to each patient, there is no "one size fits all," and the option chosen should be what is best for that particular patient.

Closed rhinoplasty reduces the appearance of visible scar and maintains the blood supply a little better.Kenneth Hughes, MDLos Angeles, CA