Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty

Patients often ask about or are concerned about whether their rhinoplasty will be done by an open or closed approach. They express concerns about the external columella incision in the open approach, which they fear will leave a visible scar as well as longer periods of swelling and healing. Some will only seek out surgeons who exclusively do the procedure the way they want it done.

Dr. Schwartz uses both the open and closed approach but counsels not to worry about the approach as much as the desired result. "After evaluating what a patient needs to have done to get the result they want, I'll tell them what approach I'm going to use" says Dr. Schwartz. "I don't think the external incision creates a problem scar and I think getting the result you want is worth a little more healing time". "If a patient is set on a certain approach and I don't think I can get the result that way then I'll recommend they see another surgeon who can."

Dr. Schwartz feels that it comes down to training and experience. There is no "right or better way" to do a rhinoplasty. Some surgeons are very comfortable with open rhinoplasties only, some with closed and some with both.

The following patients illustrate how Dr. Schwartz uses both open and closed rhinoplasty for his patients. Both patients are seen at over 3 years after their procedures.