Which Rhinoplasty Technique Is Best?
Permanently changing the appearance of the most prominent feature of the face can be a difficult, frustrating, and overwhelming process. The easiest step in the rhinoplasty treatment process is making the decision to undergo the procedure. Deciding to undergo surgery and finding a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon are vital steps in the rhinoplasty treatment process. The next step, and one of the hardest, is determining the technique used during rhinoplasty surgery. At the Minneapolis practice, Mesna Plastic Surgery, rhinoplasty techniques are determined on a case by case basis. The unique needs and goals of the patient determine the technique used during the procedure.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis. There are two surgical techniques: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. The greatest difference between the open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty techniques is the placement of the incisions. Both techniques offer advantages and disadvantages. There is not a “best” technique when performing rhinoplasty surgery. The “best” or most appropriate technique is dependent upon a number of factors including the skill and experience of the surgeon and the needs of the patient. Patients can achieve superior results with both open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty.
During surgery, incisions are made to access the cartilage and bone that support the nose. The cartilage and bone supporting the nose is then sculpted to create a more functional, aesthetically pleasing shape. The bone and cartilage may be reduced to achieve a smaller shape to the nose or grafts or cartilage may be added to achieve a larger shape to the nose. The angle between upper lip and nose may also be improved through rhinoplasty surgery. The shape of the bridge of the nose, the shape of the tip of the nose, the size of the nose, the angle between the upper lip and the nose, bumps and ridges on the nose, and even birth defects affecting the nose can be addressed through rhinoplasty surgery. Upon addressing the functional and aesthetic issues affecting the nose, the surgeon redrapes the tissues of the nose and closes the incisions.
Rhinoplasty Techniques: Open
In the open rhinoplasty technique, an incision is made across the tissue of the nose that separates the nostrils. The placement of the incision in open rhinoplasty enables the surgeon to lift the skin from the tip of the nose and access and shape the cartilage in a more precise manner. A disadvantage to the open rhinoplasty technique is that a small scar will be left on the underside of the nose.
Rhinoplasty Techniques: Closed
In the closed rhinoplasty technique, incisions are made inside the nose. Because the incisions are made inside the nose, the risk of external scarring is completely eliminated. The lack of external scarring makes the closed rhinoplasty technique preferred by many patients. The recovery period with closed rhinoplasty may also be easier for many patients than the open rhinoplasty recovery period.
Learn More about Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty has the ability to completely transform a person’s appearance. To learn more about rhinoplasty techniques, please call or email Mesna Plastic Surgery today. The only way to determine the best technique for your unique needs is by scheduling a personal consultation.
