Rhinoplasty is any type of operative technique performed on noses. The purposes for rhinoplasty include the restoring of nasal airway function, the reparation of a nasal deformity, and for altering the shape of a patient’s nose.
Two basic techniques or types of rhinoplasty are used for different purposes. Closed, or endonasal, rhinoplasty involves any surgical techniques that are performed without cutting the exterior of the nose.
Open, or exterior, rhinoplasty involves first cutting the columella between the nostrils, and then, with increased access, performing more incisions on the inside. The incisions on the inside may be the same as those done in closed rhinoplasty, but the difference is the external incision.
While open rhinoplasty has its clear advantage of allowing greater access and more room for the surgeon to perform any needed surgery on the inside of the nose, the closed rhinoplasty is generally preferred where it is possible.
The reasons for this are many, including reduced postoperative swelling, decreased need for supporting the nasal tip, no external scarring, and shorter operation and recovery times. The patient will return to a normal appearance in less time, allowing him or her to go back to work sooner after the surgery.