Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
There are two main types of rhinoplasty procedures: open and closed. The incisional approach taken by the surgeon determines what type of nasal surgery has been performed.
In an open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes a small incision to the columella (the fleshy, outer end of the septum) in addition to the typical set of incisions required in a nasal correction. In a closed rhinoplasty, every incision is made inside the nose, and will not cut the columella.
There are many instances where a patient may only want small changes to their nose, such as tip refinement, a small bump, or some asymmetry issues. For these patients, their surgery can be performed under a local anesthesia in the office while awake with only a mild relaxation medicine, such as Xanax.
The type of procedure your surgeon performs depends on the existing features of your nose, as well as your desired goals for treatment.
