Deciding to enhance your appearance is a deeply personal journey, and your nose plays a significant role in facial harmony and confidence. Whether you’re looking to refine your features, improve breathing function, or correct concerns from a previous surgery, finding the right nose surgery approach is key. Open rhinoplasty is one of the most effective techniques for achieving precise, natural-looking results. With the expertise of our skilled surgeons, this procedure can help you achieve the balanced, well-proportioned nose you have envisioned.

What is an Open Rhinoplasty?

Open rhinoplasty is a surgical technique used to correct both cosmetic and functional concerns of the nose. When used during a rhinoplasty procedure, the surgeon can reshape and refine the nose by making an incision along the columella, the small strip of tissue between the nostrils. This technique allows for greater visibility and precision in modifying the nasal structure, making it an ideal approach for more complex cases, such as significant reshaping, structural corrections, or revisions from previous rhinoplasty procedures.

Compared to closed rhinoplasty, which involves incisions inside the nostrils and limits visibility, the open technique provides a more direct approach, making it particularly beneficial for intricate adjustments. While closed rhinoplasty may be suitable for minor refinements, open rhinoplasty is often the preferred choice for cases requiring extensive reshaping or correction.

What are the Benefits of an Open Rhinoplasty?

Open rhinoplasty offers several advantages for patients undergoing rhinoplasty surgery, including:

• The open approach provides direct access to the nasal framework, allowing for more meticulous modifications.
• It is ideal for correcting significant nasal deformities, asymmetry, or breathing difficulties.
• With a full view of the nasal structures, the surgeon can make more accurate adjustments.
• For patients who have had previous rhinoplasty procedures, open rhinoplasty allows for more comprehensive corrections.

Is Open Rhinoplasty Right for Me?

If you are considering open rhinoplasty surgery, it is important to determine whether this procedure aligns with your needs and expectations. This approach is often recommended for individuals seeking significant cosmetic changes, structural corrections to improve breathing, or revision surgery after a previous rhinoplasty. Ideal candidates should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations about the outcome. A consultation with the surgeon will help assess your specific concerns and determine whether open rhinoplasty is the best option for you.

The Open Rhinoplasty Procedure

To begin the open rhinoplasty procedure, general anesthesia is administered to ensure patient comfort. Once the patient is fully sedated, the surgeon makes a small incision on the columella, connecting it to internal incisions within the nostrils. This allows the nasal skin to be carefully lifted, providing access to the underlying nasal cavity, cartilage, and nasal bone. The surgeon then reshapes these structures to achieve the desired appearance and improve nasal function if necessary.

In cases requiring additional support, cartilage grafts from the septum, ear, or rib may be used to reinforce the nasal framework. Once the modifications are complete, the skin is repositioned, and sutures are placed to close the incision. While a small scar may be present on the columella, it typically fades over time.

Open Rhinoplasty Recovery and Results

Recovery from open rhinoplasty occurs in stages, with swelling and bruising being most noticeable during the first week. Patients typically wear a nasal splint to support healing. By the second week, visible swelling subsides, and many individuals feel comfortable returning to work and social activities.

Over the following months, the swelling continues to diminish, gradually revealing more refined results. It can take up to a year for the final shape of the nose to become fully visible as residual swelling completely resolves. To ensure a smooth recovery, patients should follow post-operative care instructions, avoid strenuous activities, and protect the nose from impact.

Why Choose FacesFirst?

At FacesFirst, our surgeons specialize in facial plastic surgery. Dr. Picerno and Dr. Cote are double-board certified in both facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology, bringing a wealth of expertise to procedures involving the face, head, and neck. With their extensive knowledge and skill, they are dedicated to delivering natural-looking results that align with your personal aesthetic goals. Our team focuses on providing individualized care, offering expert advice and treatment plans that are specifically designed for each patient. With years of experience and a patient-first philosophy, we prioritize safety, precision, and artistry to help you achieve the best version of yourself.

Schedule a Consultation in Denver or Lone Tree

If you’re considering open rhinoplasty, scheduling a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon at FacesFirst Cosmetic Surgery is the first step. During your consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your concerns, discuss your aesthetic goals, and develop a personalized treatment plan. We offer our services to the Denver Metro area, including Lone Tree, Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Castle Pines, Castle Rock, Parker, and Aurora.

Frequently Asked Questions