subject: Rhinoplasty Incision Options For Plastic Surgery Patients [print this page] Are you wondering if a rhinoplasty will improve your appearance? If you have concerns about your nose and the way it looks, you have options for making a change. Start by looking for a plastic surgeon with experience in this area. From there, you can set up a consultation and learn more about the results that you can expect. During this discussion, make sure to find out which type of incisions and approach your doctor is going to be using. While there is no one right way to perform the procedure, doctors tend to have their own preference.
First Approach: Closed (Endonasal) Technique
With an endonasal technique, the rhinoplasty incisions are inside of the nose. Obviously, the benefits of these incisions are their location. There will be no visible scarring which is preferable for most people. Some physicians and patients often suggest that there is the potential for less swelling after the operation.
On the downside, there is less visibility for the surgeon to see what he or she is doing. There is room to maneuver but it is not always easy to gain access to the bones that need to be adjusted. Because of this an inexperienced doctor may be hesitant to perform this type of rhinoplasty. Weigh out the benefits of having less potential for scarring but also realize that things can get tricky.
Second Approach: Open (External) Technique
The open technique also requires internal incisions but the base of the nose is also opened up to leave plenty of room for the rhinoplasty. In a way, during this operation, the doctor is able to look at the work and get a clear picture of what the final results will look like. If you just need a subtle change, this might be the way to go.
There are varying opinions on whether or not the scar at the base of the nose is that visible. Sometimes it fades away and is only seen when pointed out. Others are unhappy with even the potential for scarring. An experienced cosmetic surgeon may be able to close this wound with only a minor mark left.
So which rhinoplasty option is best? There is no one right answer for everyone. Some patients want to avoid scars that will show at all costs. Others would like the doctor to have as much visibility as possible to make sure that the procedure comes out as expected. It is up for you to decide which one you want. Talk with your doctor and find out what he or she believes is the best option. You want to have as much information as possible before undergoing the surgery.
