Closed Rhinoplasty in Washington DC

When choosing to get a rhinoplasty, the surgical method used will likely depend on the level of complexity involved. Dr. Michael Somenek often recommends getting an open rhinoplasty but it is possible that if the issues you wish to treat are minor, you could benefit from a closed rhinoplasty in Washington DC. We can speak with you further about what your options are during a consultation.

What is a Closed Rhinoplasty?

A closed rhinoplasty is an approach that a facial plastic surgeon takes during a nasal surgery where the incisions are all made on the inside of the nose. This is used to access all the critical structures of the nose during a rhinoplasty procedure.

During a closed rhinoplasty in our fully-accredited Washington DC surgery center, Dr. Somenek makes incisions on the inner portion of the nose. Through a variety of techniques and deliveries of the tissues, he is then able to access the nasal structures that need to be addressed in order to refine the overall nose during a closed rhinoplasty.

Key Differences Between an Open and Closed Rhinoplasty?

One of the key differences between an open and closed rhinoplasty is the amount of exposure to the underlying structures that need to be addressed during the surgery. An open procedure opens up the nose to where Dr. Somenek is able to directly visualize the cartilages that need to be refined in order to give the patient the result that they want. During a closed procedure, he can still visualize the cartilages through a different route internally with the nose, but, in some cases, this can be limiting for very complex issues during a rhinoplasty.

A closed rhinoplasty can be effectively performed in someone who is looking to improve certain aspects of the nose, such as the dorsal hump. It is quite effective at reducing the hump or if they have minor nasal tip concerns. For those that have very complex issues with their nose, including nasal tip asymmetries, a crooked nose, or extensive nasal breathing problems, an open rhinoplasty may be more effective for them.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Closed Rhinoplasty

One of the advantages of having a closed rhinoplasty in DC is the potential for decreased overall swelling after the procedure during the recovery process, although this may vary depending on the patient’s overall nasal skin thickness. For those that have very thick skin, including some patients of African-American, Hispanic, or Middle-Eastern heritage, they may have prolonged swelling regardless of the approach that is used.

A disadvantage of a closed rhinoplasty is that it might end up being an inadequate method to address complex nasal issues. For example, if the patient has an extremely deviated nasal pyramid or nasal tip, the closed rhinoplasty might not be able to properly address it, which is why Dr. Somenek typically suggests having an open rhinoplasty in these types of cases.

Postoperative Timeline of a Closed Rhinoplasty

After the patient undergoes a closed rhinoplasty, they can expect to have a cast on their nose for one week, which is then removed in the office. The incisions are internal and the dissolvable stitches will proceed to fall out over the course of several weeks. The patient can gradually resume normal activities over the course of the next week.

Discuss the Potential for a Closed Rhinoplasty in Washington DC

If your nasal issues are minor but the potential for swelling is a cause for concern, your best bet is likely to get a closed rhinoplasty in Washington DC. Contact us for a consultation where we can explain all of your options. No matter which type of rhinoplasty you choose, we will provide expert care in a friendly and safe surgical environment.

Check out some of our work in these before and after galleries for rhinoplasty.