What is rhinoplasty (open vs closed)?
Rhinoplasty is nose reshaping surgery performed using either an open approach (with an external columellar incision) or a closed approach (with incisions hidden inside the nostrils).
Open and closed rhinoplasty refer to two different surgical techniques for reshaping the nose, distinguished by where the surgeon makes the incisions. In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are placed inside the nostrils, where they remain hidden. In open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes an additional external incision across the columella, the strip of tissue between the nostrils, which allows the tissue to be lifted and folded back for fuller visibility of the underlying nasal structures.
The choice between approaches affects how the surgeon accesses and modifies the nasal framework. Closed rhinoplasty generally offers faster healing and no visible external scarring, but provides more limited visibility of the surgical field. Open rhinoplasty gives the surgeon greater control and precision for complex reshaping, revision work, or detailed structural changes, though it involves a longer operative time and a healing period for the external incision.
Both techniques are used in Ontario to address functional issues like breathing problems or cosmetic concerns such as dorsal humps, tip projection, or nostril shape. The approach a surgeon selects depends on the extent of revision needed, the complexity of the case, and the surgeon's training and preference. Facial plastic surgeons in Ontario typically offer both methods and will recommend one based on your specific goals and anatomy.