Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, is one of Dr. Ary Krau's favorite procedures to perform. In our Miami practice, he uses computer imaging software to help patients get the ideal results. The type of procedure that he performs on a patient depends on the desired end results. Some procedures, such as an open rhinoplasty, are better suited for more complicated changes, while others, such as tip-plasty, are ideal if a patient is only concerned about a certain area of the nose.
Standard
The standard rhinoplasty procedure is also called a closed rhinoplasty. The goal of a standard rhinoplasty procedure is to change the shape and size of the nose, so that it fits better on a person's face.
Scars from a standard procedure are less visible, as they are on the inside of the nose. During the procedure, Dr. Krau reduces bone and cartilage under the skin. If the nose needs to be made larger, he might take cartilage from another area of the body or another area of the nose. He then reshapes the framework of the nose to adjust the size or shape before draping the skin over it again.
If a patient is concerned about the size of her nostrils, the surgeon can reduce their size during a standard rhinoplasty. The surgeon makes incisions on the inside crease, where the nostrils connect to the cheek and removes small triangles of skin to cut down on the size of the nostrils.
Open Nose Reshaping
Open rhinoplasty is very similar to the standard procedure, with one exception. During an open rhinoplasty procedure, a surgeon makes an incision across the center column of the nose. The additional, external incision means the surgeon has a clearer view of the inside of the nose as he works. Although the incision is on the exterior of the nose, it usually heals well and isn't very visible.
Open rhinoplasty is usually ideal and preferred for more complex nose reshaping procedures. It also often works better on patients who have larger noses, notes Dr. Krau. The additional cut means the surgeon can turn the nose upward, revealing the inside of the nasal area.
Tip Plasty
Standard and open rhinoplasty procedures focus on changing the shape and size of the entire nose. But, not every patient is concerned about the appearance of their whole nose. Patients who have an upturned nose or a bulbous nose might decide to undergo surgery that focuses solely on changing the appearance of the tip.
A surgeon can make an open incision across the central column of the nose during a tip-plasty or make incisions on the inside of the nose only. The cartilage on the tip of the nose is reshaped by the doctor to adjust an upturned nose, reduce the size of a bulbous nose or make the tip larger.
Septoplasty
Patients who have a deviated septum typically benefit from a septoplasty or a septoplasty with rhinoplasty. This is a surgery to straighten and correct the septum, the piece of cartilage that divides the nostrils. When a septum deviates too much to one side, a person can have trouble breathing.
During a septoplasty, the surgeon makes incisions on the inside of the nose. He then adjusts the septum, either by trimming it, moving it or adding more cartilage.
The type of rhinoplasty procedure that is ideal depends on a patient's needs and the surgeon's preference. Some surgeons will only perform closed procedures while others only perform open surgeries. Dr. Ary Krau performs both and is happy to discuss each option with patients.
You can see Dr. Krau discuss his rhinoplasty techniques in the video below.