Rhinoplasty, the primary procedure performed by Dr. Stallworth at Stallworth Facial Plastics / Texas Plastic Surgery, can be performed and/or classified in multiple ways. Some patients seek rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons, while others have them done for functional reasons like trouble breathing. Dr. Stallworth evaluates every nose individually during his consultations, and works to educate every patient on how these factors can all be addressed with rhinoplasty surgery.  He will also help describe the procedure that is best for you and help you to understand type of rhinoplasty is right for you. 

In the following blog, we share some information on the various types of rhinoplasty and what each of them entails.

Types of Rhinoplasty: Open Rhinoplasty 

An open rhinoplasty refers to the fact that an incision must be placed on the external nose.  There are still longer incision inside the nostrils, but these are connected across the column of tissue between the nostrils, called the columella, by a small “V”-shaped incision.   Through this approach, visualization of all the nasal anatomy is possible.  This provides unparalleled access for addressing the shape, size, and orientations of cartilage and bone under direct visualization.  

This approach also provides excellent access for the placement of strengthening or reshaping grafts that are frequently utilized in rhinoplasty surgery.  In addition, this approach is critical in cases of revision rhinoplasty.  The vast majority of rhinoplasty surgery performed by Dr. Stallworth is done via the open approach.

Types of Rhinoplasty: Closed Rhinoplasty 

With a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made only inside the nose rather than having to create the connecting incision across the columella. This approach does conceal the scars but can also limit access to some parts of the nasal tip and dorsum.   Most of the time, closed rhinoplasties are performed on patients whose procedures may not be a complex, and when only minor reshaping of the nose is required. 

Types of Rhinoplasty: Liquid Rhinoplasty 

Liquid, or filler, rhinoplasty is not technically a rhinoplasty surgery at all.  Rather, it is a less invasive method to add volume to the external nose, particularly in shaping the dorsum.  In fact, this procedure is essentially making a nose bigger in some areas.  This procedure does not require any incisions or stitches, has no scars, and has very little if any downtime.  However, it is not risk free.  Injection can be dangerous to the nose and skin, and even the eyes, if filler enters into a blood vessel which can stop blood flow.  This can lead to dangerous consequences.  

In unskilled hands, these risks are much greater.  And even if successful, because fill is used, these results are NOT permanent.  Results will fade as the filler is absorbed over 12-24 months generally.  These can be an alternative for patients looking to correct minor imperfections and achieve symmetry, but not for those experiencing any type of functional issue. Typically, touch-ups of filler rhinoplasties are performed once a year. 

Types of Rhinoplasty: Tip Rhinoplasty 

Also referred to as “tip-plasty,” this technique is simply focused on addressing a patients nasal tip.  This procedure is done when there are no changes needed for the bridge of the nose. Tip Rhinoplasty is minimally invasive and can be done via an open or closed approach.   

Types of Rhinoplasty: Revision Rhinoplasty 

Trust your nose to an experienced facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Stallworth to help you achieve the cosmetic or functional outcome you desire. At Stallworth Facial Plastics, experience a rhinoplasty procedure customized to your needs and performed with the utmost skill and care. If you are interested in a rhinoplasty procedure in San Antonio, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stallworth today! 

Looking to get Rhinoplasty in San Antonio? 

You should trust your nose to an experienced facial plastic surgeon like Dr. Stallworth to you help achieve the cosmetic or functional outcome you desire. At Stallworth Facial Plastics, experience a rhinoplasty procedure customized to your needs and performed with the utmost skill and care. If you are interested in a rhinoplasty procedure in San Antonio, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stallworth today!