What is a Closed Rhinoplasty?

Closed rhinoplasty, also called endonasal rhinoplasty, involves incisions placed inside the nose. There are no visible external incisions in this approach. Open rhinoplasty, sometimes called external rhinoplasty, involves a tiny, inverted-V shaped incision being created in the columella, between the nostrils. If performed carefully and with attention to detail, this incision heals beautifully and nearly invisibly for the vast majority of patients. This approach allows the surgeon to see the tip (lower lateral) cartilages directly, in their natural shape and location, while reshaping them. The overall recovery experience is quite similar for both types of surgery, with the exception being that in the open approach, a handful of very fine stitches are removed 6-7 days after surgery. 

In my San Francisco Bay Area practice, I perform both open and closed rhinoplasty and it is the patient's nose and aesthetic desires which steer my decision regarding which approach to use. If there is significant work to be done at the tip, an open approach is preferable, in my experience. If it is simply a matter of shaving down a hump along the bridge or straightening a curved nose, these can easily be achieved through a closed approach. Let your surgeon guide you regarding which approach they prefer, based on your unique anatomy, aesthetic sense, and the surgeon's training and experience. 

Regards,

Dr. Mehta

Closed rhinoplasty requires 2 incisions inside the nostril. Therefore modifications are performed inside the nose through these incisions. Open rhinoplasty includes the same two incisions but with one additional incision across the columella.
I personally prefer open rhinoplasty It allows us, surgeons, to measure and truly analyze the anatomy of the nose so we can achieve the best possible results. Also, there's less chance of nasal asymmetry in open rhinoplasty. I perform open rhinoplasty surgeries with a technique called piezo. It's performed using ultrasonic waves which results in a quicker and painless recovery period and less downtime. It's a highly accurate method of shaping the nose.

Hello,In an open rhinoplasty you make an incision at the base of the nose that can inflict 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