Rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA, is the most sought after cosmetic surgery for nose repairs and aesthetic corrections, with over 350,000 of them performed every year. It’s popular with people of all ages, both male and female. Of course, rhinoplasty techniques vary depending on patient nasal anatomy, medical needs, and aesthetic goals, but they generally fall into one of two categories: open or closed rhinoplasty.
If you’re contemplating having some work done to your nose and are not sure which is best, continue reading to learn about open and closed rhinoplasty and which one is best for your aesthetic and functional goals.
Understanding Open Rhinoplasty
As the name implies, open rhinoplasty is an external surgical procedure. Incisions are made inside the base of the nose and on the columella (the thin piece of skin connecting the nasal tip to the base, dividing the nostrils) Placing incisions in this area provides easy access to the entire nasal structure underneath the skin and minimizes the appearance of scars. Open rhinoplasty is ideal for complex cases and severe corrections because it gives the surgeon better visibility to alter the structure and appearance of the nose.
Understanding Closed Rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA, is a type of nose job that involves alterations to the internal structures of the nose. Incisions are made inside the nostrils, not on the columella, making the procedure less painful for patients. This procedure is less invasive than open rhinoplasty but requires much more surgical expertise for the surgeon to reshape the shape of the nose. Closed rhinoplasty does have limitations and is reserved for patients requiring certain modifications to their nasal structure and appearance.
Comparing Open and Closed Rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA
Here’s a brief breakdown of the main differences between open and closed rhinoplasty.
Purpose
Open rhinoplasty is ideal for nasal bone and cartilage modifications through augmentation, reduction, and reshaping. Common corrections that require open rhinoplasty include:
- Significant nose reshaping
- Extensive grafting
- Broken nose repair
- Rhinoplasty revision
- Structural correction
- Nasal bridge straightening
Closed rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA can also reduce and reshape but on a smaller scale. The procedure is reserved for simple modifications that refine certain features of the nose, such as:
- Tip reshaping
- Dorsal hump removal
- Minor corrections
- Nose shortening
Recovery Time
Rhinoplasty patients are advised to refrain from work and certain activities during the first few weeks of recovery.
Although the most noticeable effects of rhinoplasty are gone after one to two weeks, it takes several months to a year for the nose to completely heal. However, closed rhinoplasty patients tend to recover faster than their open rhinoplasty counterparts.
Scarring
A major consideration for many patients is the potential for scarring, which is why closed rhinoplasties are popular. The placement of incisions minimizes the appearance of scar tissue. Open rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA, on the other hand, requires incisions on the external surface of the nose, increasing the risk of visible scarring.
Results
Both rhinoplasty procedures require the expertise of a highly qualified board-certified facial plastic surgeon. The most dramatic rhinoplasty transformations are often achieved with open rhinoplasty.
Determining the Right Technique for You
Neither rhinoplasty type is considered a “better” approach although there are studies that compare the results. Candidacy essentially boils down to the patient’s aesthetic and functional goals, the nasal anatomy, and plastic surgeon’s recommendations.
For example, patients who want minor changes—like tip reshaping—are often ideal candidates for closed rhinoplasty. This procedure is also preferred for people who need to avoid ecchymosis (bruising) and edema (swelling due to fluid trapped in tissue). The minimally invasive approach and quick recovery times also make this a popular option.
So before preparing for rhinoplasty in West Hills, CA, it’s best to consider your expectations and priorities.
- How dramatic do you want the results to be?
- What changes do you want made to your nose?
- Do you have any underlying conditions that could affect the surgery or healing process?
- Which is more important to you: recovery time or dramatic results?
Open rhinoplasty is ideal for those who want extensive alterations to their nose shape. Whereas closed rhinoplasty is often suitable for individuals interested in smaller, less significant changes and a quicker recovery period.
It’s important for patients to discuss their expectations and goals with a qualified, board-certified facial plastic surgeon. A consultation is necessary for candidates for a nasal anatomy examination and treatment plan tailored to deliver the desired results.
Conclusion
The decision for open and closed rhinoplasty is patient and facial plastic surgeon dependent. While closed rhinoplasty offers slightly quicker recovery times and less scarring, open rhinoplasty is more suitable for patients requiring significant changes or a more dramatic transformation.
Schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with an experienced facial plastic surgeon to discuss your goals, concerns, and medical history to learn which rhinoplasty is right for you.