Rhinoplasty - The Two Approaches

Rhinoplasty is an option that people go through in order to alter and improve the appearance of their noses. Many individuals suffer from what they perceive as an imperfect part of their body. This part can actually have obtained the imperfections or damage due to genetics or accidents and trauma that may have occurred. For some people changing this part of the face can actually improve their overall visage. This is one of the more delicate procedures in plastic surgery because of the small area in which the surgeon has to maneuver and because there are bones and cartilage here. The plastic surgeon is also encouraged to train in this specific region in order to have vast experience and more skill. Continued education is also encouraged. Since the current techniques may be advanced or innovated, methods and approaches in rhinoplasty may change regularly. The license of the doctor is also renewed at certain periods. He or she may also be required to attend seminars, continued education classes and others in order to update their knowledge and skill. Basic Techniques There are two basic techniques when implementing rhinoplasty. These are the open and closed methods. Although both ways are similar, there is a difference between them. The difference is in the open technique in which the surgeon makes a crucial incision that basically opens up the entire nasal region to his or her perusal. This incision is made on the columella, the fleshy part between both nostrils. The cut allows the plastic surgeon more access to the region compared to that of the closed approach. In many cases, the surgeon appreciates the extra room for maneuvering since the skin can be folded back, exposing the entire nasal region. Other specific changes and alterations in the nasal region can be made with this method with greater flair and extent. It is ideal for operations that make big changes, especially in the bridge of the nose, which may be further up the region, closer to the eyes. The closed approach makes incisions in the inner part of the nostrils resulting in virtually no visible scars and shorter recovery. It has benefits, which include a faster recovery period and lower risks for infection. Although complications are relatively the same for both techniques, the open one is more prone to slower recovery because of the extent of the trauma that the area is exposed to during rhinoplasty. Pain or discomfort might also be greater for the open method due to the additional incision but this is not a guarantee for lesser discomfort for the closed. The pain threshold of the individual is also part of what may influence the comfort of the person and the length of the recovery period. The recovery period for both techniques may differ due to the difference, which is the incision. Mainly, the disposition of the person can also influence it as well as the understanding that he or she has for the rhinoplasty operation. Other factors may also apply depending on each case.