Nose surgery is a very popular cosmetic procedure – in fact, in 2020 it was the 4th most popular procedure in the world. If you’re unhappy with the shape, size or even function of your nose, having rhinoplasty could help.
But just as there are lots of different kinds of noses, there are different types of rhinoplasty. Both closed and open rhinoplasty can change the shape and size of the nose, but which one might be right for you?
Open rhinoplasty
What is open rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty is a type of nose job that involves an incision outside of the nose. Your surgeon will make the incision in the soft piece of flesh between your nostrils (the columella), and then lift the skin back off the nose. This allows them to see the structure of your nose and shape the tissue and cartilage to give you your desired results.
Advantages of open rhinoplasty
- Offers better exposure of your nasal structure for your surgeon, allowing them to make precise changes with better visibility
- Is popular with surgeons, meaning that it might be easier to find a surgeon to perform your open rhinoplasty
- It’s easier for your surgeon to stabilise your nose following open rhinoplasty
Disadvantages of closed rhinoplasty
- Involves a longer procedure time than closed rhinoplasty
- It may take longer for you to recover from open rhinoplasty, as it can cause more swelling
- Your scar will be on the outside of your nose, just between your nostrils
Who should have open rhinoplasty?
If you’re looking to change the shape and/or size of your nasal tip, then it’s likely that your surgeon will recommend open rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty can also be an option if you’re having revision or reconstructive nose surgery, as it allows your surgeon better visibility of your nose structure.
Closed rhinoplasty
What is closed rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty is a type of nose job that is performed entirely from the inside of the nose. Your surgeon makes small incisions along the inside of your nostril in order to change the shape and size of your nose. This means that no external scars will be left.
Advantages of closed rhinoplasty
- Leaves you with no visible scarring and can mean less swelling as you recover
- The surgery time is quicker than open rhinoplasty
- Your recovery time might be faster and less painful than with open rhinoplasty
Disadvantages of closed rhinoplasty
- Your surgeon will have less visibility of your nose when performing closed rhinoplasty
- Can be less precise than open rhinoplasty
- Many surgeons will only perform open rhinoplasty, so you might have trouble finding a suitable surgeon
Who should have closed rhinoplasty?
As closed rhinoplasty is a less complex procedure than open rhinoplasty, it’s best suited for those who want to make subtle adjustments to their nose. For example, if you’d like to eliminate a bridge bump or make your nose slimmer, your surgeon might suggest closed rhinoplasty.
Open vs. closed rhinoplasty: which is best?
The type of rhinoplasty that you have will depend on the look you want to achieve, and your surgeon’s recommendation. Neither one is better than the other, as they are performed for different purposes and can achieve different results.
| Procedure time | Scarring | How can it change my nose? |
Open rhinoplasty | 1.5-3 hours | Just below the tip of your nose, between the nostrils | Can change the size, shape, and tip of your nose, depending on your desired results |
Closed rhinoplasty | 1-2 hours | Concealed inside the rim of the nostrils | Can eliminate lumps and bumps and slim the nose |
If you’d like to learn more about nose surgery, you can book your free consultation here and chat about your goals with an expert advisor.
