Are Incisions Under the Eyes Necessary During Some Rhinoplasty Procedures?

Hello Boston9626-

Insightful question....the "incisions" you speak of are the access points for the surgical instrument used to make small perforations in the nasal bones (much like the holes on a stamp) allowing them to break. Breaking the nasal bones allows the surgeon to nasal the middle width of the nose. This can also be done through incisions or access points on the inside of the nose.

I have used both approaches...individualized for each patient. External skin incisions, below the eyes as you state, may have a mechanical advantage and may lessen the risk of bruising and swelling. Whereas, the internal approach, although there is not a scar on the outside, uses a cutting technique that cuts bone and blood vessels, leading to more swelling and bruising (raccoon eyes).

Patients are individuals and have different anatomic requirements....benefits of both techniques. I know Boston well...please say hello to my professors...they taught me well. But, I would recommend that you continue to educate yourself and see as many surgeons as you can to find your comfort zone. A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who loves rhinoplasty and is dedicated to the procedure, critically annalizes his/her outcomes, shows you their work and makes you feel confident in their ability to achieve YOUR goals...like a beautiful nose without any external scars below the eyes! 

Hope this helps!

Dr. C

johnconnorsmd.com

In 35 years of doing thousands of rhinoplasties, I have never had to make an incision under the eyes. You can fracture the bones from the inside without any problem. See another experienced rhinoplasty surgeon for another opinion.