Everything About Closed Scarless Rhinoplasty

Are you unhappy with your nose? Then you may be searching for a way to change its appearance without scarring. A scarless rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that uses incisions in the nostrils, so there are few scars on the outside.

Unlike open rhinoplasty, scarless rhinoplasty is often used to reshape the nose tip, shorten the nose, or eliminate a dorsal hump. The ideal candidate for a scarless rhinoplasty has a symmetrical nose that needs some reshaping of the bridge or tip.

If you are thinking about getting a nose job without scars, below is more information about the procedure.

Overview

Scarless rhinoplasty, also called closed rhinoplasty, involves incisions inside the nostrils. As a result, the surgeon doesn’t fully open the nose, and the nasal structure isn’t exposed.

All surgical work is done through small incisions in each nostril, and the surgeon can’t see as much as with open rhinoplasty. That’s why it’s essential to choose a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon for your scarless rhinoplasty.

A closed rhinoplasty also is faster and doesn’t have as much swelling or recovery. Most of these procedures are performed under general anesthesia.

Scarless Rhinoplasty Overview

On the day of your rhinoplasty, your surgeon will give you general or local anesthesia. Some surgeons prefer general anesthesia because it can cause blood to seep into the throat, which can be hazardous if you are unconscious.

After being given anesthesia, the surgeon will make several incisions inside the nostrils. They will separate the skin and cartilage, then start reshaping the nose. Options include cartilage or adding or shaving bone. Adding bone will require a bone graft from your leg or rib.

Stitches or sutures will close the incisions when the surgeon is done shaping the nose. Then you are fitted with a nose splint. Most scarless rhinoplasties take one or two hours.

What To Expect After Scarless Rhinoplasty

After your rhinoplasty, you will be fitted with a splint or cast for about a week. This provides support to your nose during the healing process. It’s essential to have someone available to drive you home from the surgical center because you will be coming out of anesthesia.

You’ll need to take three to five days off from work and sleep with your head elevated; doing so will reduce swelling.

Some activities you should avoid during your early recovery include:

• Strenuous workouts, such as running or yoga
• Excessive chewing
• Swimming
• Drinking alcoholic beverages
• Blowing or picking your nose
• Sleeping facedown
• Putting clothes on over your head

After a week, your splint or cast will be removed, and you will see your nose. Remember, there will still be swelling and bruising, so don’t expect it to look perfect just yet. But you can go back to your daily activities at this time.

How To Prepare For A Scarless Rhinoplasty

Before the procedure, the surgeon will consult with you to discuss why you want rhinoplasty. They also will examine your face and nose to understand what is and isn’t possible.

Remember to tell the surgeon about what you want to change, and they’ll let you know if it’s possible.

It’s essential to tell the surgeon about the medications and supplements you take. Also, the surgical staff will take pictures of your nose from several angles. This will help to determine if you are a candidate for traditional rhinoplasty or non-surgical rhinoplasty with dermal fillers.

In the days before your rhinoplasty, don’t take blood thinners, such as alcohol and aspirin. You also shouldn’t smoke because it can delay the healing process.

You will need a friend or family member to drive you home, and it helps to have them stay overnight.

Should You Have Open Or Closed Rhinoplasty?

Understanding the differences between open and closed (scarless) rhinoplasty is essential. As noted earlier, a scarless rhinoplasty only requires incisions inside the nostrils.

Open rhinoplasty also has incisions inside the nostrils but also one on the columella between the nostrils. The extra incision allows access to the entire nose structure.

Which surgery is best for you depends on the situation and what you want. For example, open rhinoplasty lets the surgeon see any abnormalities or asymmetry that can’t be seen from a regular examination.

Open rhinoplasty also allows for more precision by the surgeon. Also, open rhinoplasty provides more extensive and accurate cartilage grafts if necessary.

On the other hand, scarless rhinoplasty is often the best choice for some patients. If you only need a small amount of work, the scarless rhinoplasty can work well.

Scarless rhinoplasty also has less swelling and recovery time. So if it’s possible to do the closed procedure, it’s the best option. But if you need more changes to the nose, open rhinoplasty is better.

Reconstructive Or Reductive Rhinoplasty?

Another consideration when considering open or closed rhinoplasty is whether the procedure needs to be reconstructive or reductive. A reductive procedure removes tissue from the nose; for instance, someone with a dorsal hump in the nose needs a reductive procedure.

A reconstructive procedure may be needed if structural abnormalities cause breathing problems and other issues. In this situation, open rhinoplasty is best.

Scarless rhinoplasty can be the ideal solution for making small changes in the nose, and there is minimal scarring. The procedure also has less downtime and swelling, so talk to your surgeon today to determine if this is a good choice for you.

Request A Rhinoplasty Consultation

Thinking about rhinoplasty in Chicago? Dr. Otto Placik is proud to serve Chicago area patients at his practice. He’ll go over your options and needs to determine if you’re an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty.

References

Closed Rhinoplasty Overview. (2021). Accessed at https://www.healthline.com/health/cosmetic-surgery/closed-rhinoplasty#:~:text

Nose Reshaping Overview. (n.d.). Accessed at https://www.surgery.org/consumers/ask-a-surgeon/difference-open-closed-rhinoplasty