Rhinoplasty also known as a “nose job”, is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedures to enhance the shape of the nose or improve nasal breathing. Though it is most commonly performed for cosmetic reasons, it can also be performed to correct a deformed nose following a trauma to the nose or due to a congenital deformity. Individuals with a deviated nasal septum, congenital deformity of the nose or any other medical conditions associated with nasal obstruction can expect symptomatic relief through rhinoplasty surgery. As it is an invasive surgical procedure, it is quite natural for patients to wonder if the surgery will result in a permanent scar on their face. Scarring is dependent on the type of rhinoplasty surgery performed.
Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can be divided into two different types of surgery – open and closed. The primary difference between the two is the site of their incision.
In open rhinoplasty, a small visible incision is made across the columella, (soft tissue found between the two nostrils at the junction of the lip and tip of the nose). The advantage of this type of the surgery is that the site is easily visible and accessible for the surgeon and it is compatible with the use of grafts or implants.
On the other hand, closed rhinoplasty requires an incision to be made inside the nostril. It has several benefits over open rhinoplasty as it is less invasive, has a lower incident of postoperative swelling, has a lower risk of an excessive correction (removal of cartilage), and requires less time for complete healing.
Will There Be A Scar?
Scarring is a natural process by which the body heals any discontinuity in the skin or tissue. Though it might be a nuisance, it is not something to be frightened about. Since rhinoplasty is an invasive procedure, it is likely to lead to the production of some post-surgical scar tissue. However, since the incision is typically small, the amount of scarring is usually very minimal and will be present in inconspicuous areas. As the incision in open rhinoplasty is made on the external surface, the scar can be visible to the naked eye on close inspection for a number of months following the surgery, however, it is hardly visible by the one-year anniversary of the surgery. The closed rhinoplasty incision is usually more preferred as the cut is made internally so the scar is not visible to the naked eye. The mucous membranes inside the nose tend to heal very well without raised or dark scarring.
Preventing and Treatment Option
During your surgical consultation, Dr. Solomon will thoroughly discuss post-surgical care and provide detailed instructions on how to care for your nose following surgery. At Solomon Facial Plastic, we also make ourselves available to be reached easily if there are any concerns. After the incision heals and your sutures are removed, you will be directed to use a topical ointment to reduce as much scarring as possible. It’s also recommended that you use sun block protection for the first year to avoid scar pigment development.
Sep 19th 2017