Rhinoplasty is a facial cosmetic surgery procedure designed to provide facial symmetry and proportionate balance to the face. It is also frequently combined with a septoplasty procedure in order to improve breathing. When considering a Toronto rhinoplasty, one of the most frequently asked questions is whether the procedure should be open or closed. Both techniques are widely used with great success and have advantages and disadvantages. The best procedure for your particular needs and aesthetic goals should be decided in consultation with your rhinoplasty surgeon.
Open Rhinoplasty
The open rhinoplasty technique involves making a small incision across the columella, the soft tissue found between the two nostrils. As a result, a small scar forms in the incision site, however, when performed by a skilled and experienced Toronto rhinoplasty surgeon, the scar will gradually fade and in many cases it is undetectable as soon as six months post-operatively. Thus, it should not be considered a deterrent if open rhinoplasty is the most suitable procedure for you.
If they are located in a high-end neighborhood, their prices may be high, yet it is very important to ensure that your surgeon has a wealth of knowledge and experience in your, specific area of treatment. As well, a low price does not necessarily indicate poor quality, though it should cause some concern and investigation if you see pricing that appears too good to be true.
This technique has a number of advantages, including:
- It provides the surgeon with greater access to the anatomy, which means it is possible to make a better diagnosis of any anatomical problems, which may require correction.
- It allows the surgeon to make more precise measurements and adjustments.
- The nose can be made more stable as sutures can be placed very precisely in grafts or in the existing cartilage.
- It enables the surgeon to access the nasal tip, even if significant scarring or damage is present from a previous rhinoplasty.
As a result of the aforementioned benefits, the open technique is the preferred method by many surgeons, particularly when complex changes are required.
Closed Rhinoplasty
The closed technique makes all incisions within the nostrils, which means that they are hidden and out of sight. For this reason, Closed Rhinoplasty is the preferred choice by Dr. Philip Solomon if this method will also provide the best possible results.
There are a number of benefits to the closed technique, including:
- The less invasive nature of this technique reduces both the length of the procedure and the required recovery time, which means patients require less time off from work.
- Because the procedure is not as invasive as the open approach, the resulting swelling is typically minimal.
- Since the incisions are made inside the nostrils, a scar is not produced along the columella.
As an Otolaryngologist Head and Neck Surgeon Practicing Facial Plastic Surgery specializing in rhinoplasty in Toronto, Dr. Solomon has nearly twenty years experience performing both open and closed rhinoplasty surgeries. To learn which technique is right for you, we welcome you to contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr. Solomon. However, when possible, Dr. Solomon recommends the closed technique due to its less invasive nature. During your individual consultation, he will assess your needs, listen to your concerns and aesthetic goals, and determine which approach will best meet your requirements.