Closed rhinoplasty, also known as endonasal rhinoplasty, has gained popularity for its ability to achieve remarkable results with minimal scarring and a shorter recovery time. In this informative resource, we will delve into the intricacies of this transformative procedure, exploring its techniques, benefits, and considerations, so you can make an informed decision if this rhinoplasty procedure is right for you.
Whether you’re seeking aesthetic refinement or improved nasal function, join us on this journey to discover the art and science behind closed rhinoplasty.
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What is Closed Rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty is an approach to nose surgery that does not use visible incisions. It provides far more subtle and natural appearing results than the open approach. In an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Russell would place incisions on the columella, the tiny bit of skin that separates the nostrils. These nose job approaches differ greatly from each other, and so do their results.
How Does Dr. Russell Perform Closed Rhinoplasty?
To start the surgery, Dr. Russell places incisions inside the nostrils. This results in nearly invisible scars once they heal. Through these tiny incisions, Dr. Russell adjusts the structure of the nose, as needed. Once he completes the surgery, he uses sutures to close the incisions and applies a small cast to secure the results.
A consultation with Dr. Russell, a certified facial plastic surgeon, enables him to evaluate your unique objectives. He can then establish the most suitable approach for your needs.
Closed Rhinoplasty Before and After Photos
Closed Rhinoplasty Before and After Patient 1:
During her Christmas break from college, Dr. Joseph Russell had the pleasure of seeing this patient once again, and her satisfaction with her transformed nose continues to be evident. In her particular case, challenges arose from a lack of tip definition due to the thickness of her skin and the shape of the lower cartilages in her nose.
To effectively address these concerns, Dr. Russell employed cartilage harvested from her nasal septum to meticulously craft a tip graft, providing the much-needed structure and definition to her nasal tip. The presence of thick nasal skin can pose one of the more intricate challenges in rhinoplasty, as it can limit the degree of tip definition attainable through surgery.
Nevertheless, as demonstrated in this case, a well-executed tip graft serves as an excellent solution for some patients, resulting in outcomes that are both pleasing and enduring.
Closed Rhinoplasty Pros & Cons
The goal of a closed rhinoplasty is to minimize scarring. Unlike an open rhinoplasty, this technique involves making incisions inside the nostrils, instead of on the columella. This approach restricts vision of and access to the inner nasal structure. However, scarring is not visible by ordinary means, and the results are subtle and appear more natural.
Pros to Closed Approach:
- Scarring is not visible.
- There is less swelling and bruising than in open rhinoplasty.
- Results are more subtle and recovery time is quicker.
- Surgery is quicker than the open approach.
Cons to Closed Approach
- More difficult to perform than open rhinoplasty.
- Lack of visual guide for the surgeon.
Recovering From a Closed Rhinoplasty
After surgery, it is common for patients to experience swelling in the nasal area. The degree of swelling can vary from person to person. Generally, patients can expect a notable reduction in swelling during the initial four weeks following the procedure.
Once he completes the surgery, Dr. Russell applies a nose cast. Most patients wear this cast through the first week. At home, patients should focus on rest and refrain from physically demanding activities.
In the second week post-op, Dr. Russell removes the cast and assesses the recovery process. By this time, bruising and swelling will have significantly improved and mostly subsided.
In the third and fourth weeks of recovery, patients can begin to continue their regular activities. During this period, noticeable improvements in the nose will be evident as much of the swelling will have diminished. Patients may also notice subtle changes in the nose’s shape over the course of the following year.
FAQ About Closed Rhinoplasty
Where do the stitches go?
Dr. Russell performs this procedure through small incisions, inside the nostrils. After the surgery, he places absorbable stitches on the incisions. Eventually, these stitches will dissolve, and visible scarring will not be present. A follow-up visit for their removal is not necessary.
Will my nose be broken?
Breaking the nose is an old approach, not favored by Dr. Russell. He prefers to reshape the nose and adjust the nasal structure, without breaking the nose. While this makes it more difficult of a procedure to perform, it reduces trauma to the treated area.
How long will the results last?
While open rhinoplasty involves lifting nasal skin to provide access to the nasal structure, closed rhinoplasty does not. Therefore, Dr. Russell can perform closed rhinoplasty surgery in just 1 to 2 hours. The procedure provides long term, lifetime results.
How long will bruising last?
Rhinoplasty patients tend to bruise easier if their skin is thin. Typically, bruising only lasts for about 2 weeks, before it mostly subsides.
Who is a Candidate for This Procedure?
For individuals who want a smaller nose and a refined contour, closed rhinoplasty is the best choice. This surgery may even provide benefits to patients with breathing-related concerns. Candidates should maintain their physical health before and after the procedure, as well as temporarily quitting smoking and consuming alcohol.
Schedule Your Consultation
If you are considering open rhinoplasty, do not hesitate to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joseph Russell. Contact his Charleston office at (843) 576-3302.