Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty | Mr. Gwanmesia Skip to main content

Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

Before performing your rhinoplasty, Mr Gwanmesia will determine which surgical technique is best for your needs. The two approaches to most rhinoplasties are labelled “open rhinoplasty” and “closed rhinoplasty.” The following descriptions outline the differences between these two procedures and why one technique might be better for your rhinoplasty procedure.

Rhinoplasty Before and After Photos

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty uses a surgical incision on the columella, which is the narrow bridge that separates the nostrils and connects the tip of the nose to the base. With this incision, the nose can be opened up for the procedure. The skin is separated from the underlying structural layers, and cartilage may be added, removed, or repositioned to improve the shape and appearance of your nose.

Advantages:

The primary advantage of open rhinoplasty is that this incision allows for more visibility of the nasal structures. This technique is preferable for individuals who desire more extensive nasal adjustments. In fact, certain improvements are only possible with the open rhinoplasty surgical technique.

Disadvantages:

The open technique is usually a longer procedure and requires a more extensive recovery period. In addition, this technique may leave a small scar at the base of the nose. The scar will be inconspicuous and will likely fade over time. Makeup can be used to disguise the scar if desired.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty typically uses multiple surgical incisions hidden inside the nasal cavity. The skin is separated from the cartilage, and the nasal structures are reshaped.

Advantages:

Closed rhinoplasty is often preferable for individuals who are concerned about visible scars, as this technique does not result in any noticeable scarring. Using this technique usually makes rhinoplasty a shorter procedure with a less extensive recovery period.

Disadvantages:

This surgical technique limits the potential for correction of the nasal structures, as it reduces the surgeon’s ability to view and manipulate the nasal tissues. While many subtle changes can still be made, certain adjustments will not be possible with closed rhinoplasty. For patients who require only minor alterations, closed rhinoplasty can achieve excellent results.

The 15 percent increase in rhinoplasty procedures over the last year suggests that regardless of surgical technique, rhinoplasty continues to help people attain their desired appearance. During your consultation, Mr Gwanmesia will discuss with you in greater detail the benefits of undergoing closed rhinoplasty versus open rhinoplasty. Whichever you choose, Mr Gwanmesia can help you achieve aesthetically pleasing results that will improve your nose and enhance your overall appearance.

Rhinoplasty can improve facial attractiveness and harmony by altering the shape and size of the nose. To schedule your consultation for rhinoplasty with Mr Gwanmesia, call 02074741300 or fill out our online contact form today.


Dr Ivo Gwanmesia

Dr Ivo Gwanmesia is one of Harley Street’s most experienced and renowned craniofacial plastic surgeons. With over a decade of professional experience, he has transformed the lives of countless patients from all over the UK & abroad.

Due to his vast and hands-on training in the UK and the US, Dr Ivo now specialises in more than a dozen different aesthetic, craniofacial and transgender procedures. Some of them include face, neck, and brow lifts, upper and lower blepharoplasty, breast reduction & breast uplift as well as facial feminisation surgery, to name a few.

Dr Gwanmesia has also conducted pioneering research, which led to the development of a new technique for the reconstruction of the middle vault of the nose, known as the ‘Fulcrum Spreader Graft’. He was also part of a study comparing the efficacy of the Sheen Spreader Graft and the Fulcrum Spreader Graft. The study has since been published on PubMed and the Journal of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.