OPEN RHINOPLASTY

Open Rhinoplasty refers to surgical approach which involves an incision across the columella. In case of open rhinoplasty the incision is usually a stair step or inverted V design which extends horizontally across the nasal columella.

This incision leads to wide exposure of the cartilage and connective tissue comprising the nasal tip and the middle vault of the nose hence it is known as Open Rhinplasty. The incision is closed with either small absorbable sutures or nonabsorbable sutures which get removed in around a week.

Once healing takes place it becomes difficult to distinguish between results of an open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty.

Open Rhinoplasty approach is better as compared to revision rhinoplasty since it leads to meticulous dissection through scar tissue. In case of severely deformed nose tips it leads to more room for suturing and grafting of cartilage. A number of surgeons use open rhinoplasty approach for all their patients and this is adopted due to lack of experience in case of closed rhinoplasty approach.

 It is necessary to take note of the fact that multiple grafts which include columellar strut grafts and batten grafts are easily inserted through closed rhinoplasty approach. Open rhinoplasty incision heals quickly but it must be performed by a skilled surgeon.