Difference Between Closed and Open Rhinoplasty?

Thank you for your question.

The main difference between Open and Closed Rhinoplasty is that a small incision is made on the underside of the nose-the Columella during an open approach.

This incision is usually well hidden and only seen if you lift your head back so someone can see the underside of your nos.

The skill of your surgeon is the most important factor in achieving a good result.

That said, the surgeon is able to see and more accurately modify the nasal structures through the open approach.

I find that the open approach, in my hands, is the best for achieving a detailed refinement of the nasal tip.

There are however surgeons who achieve excellent results using the older closed approach.

Hello,In an open rhinoplasty you make an incision at the base of the nose that can inflicts a scar. Most surgeons are more comfortable with the “open” rhinoplasty approach because it is easier for them to personally see the nose. In a closed rhinoplasty approach they make all of the incision 100% on the inside of the nose so no scars are made. If you are a primary nose with no previous surgery, you should ONLY consider closed scarless rhinoplasty (preferred by actresses and celebrities) because there is no risk of external scarring and much less healing and recovery time.  The goal is to finesse and enhance the nose without drastic change.  Meaningful refinement is the key.   All the same surgical maneuvers your nose requires can be performed with a skilled closed scarless surgeon.  All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed through either an open or closed approach. With both of these techniques incisions are made on the inside of the nose along the nostril rim. When a closed approach is utilized no additional incisions are made. The surgeon is able to operate through these nostril incisions but doesn’t have direct visualization of the underlying anatomic structures. In contrast when an open approach is utilized a small incision is mad across the columella that connects the two nostril incisions. This small incision tends to heal nicely and is almost imperceptible in most cases. This approach gives the surgeon the ability to lift the skin off the underlying bone and cartilage and directly visualize these anatomic structures.
                The approach utilized depends upon a variety of factors including the patient’s anatomic findings, aesthetic goals and the surgeon’s preference. Historically, the vast majority of rhinoplasties were performed with a closed technique. This has gradually changed over the years and now most rhinoplasties are performed with an open approach. This is probably due to the fact that surgeons can more easily visualize the underlying anatomy when this approach is utilized.

                It’s important to understand that most surgeons utilize both approaches. Most surgeons agree that the surgical approach utilized is less important than the surgeon’s skill. For this reason, it’s important to consult a board certified rhinoplasty surgeon with experience in this area.