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Posted on December 16, 2024 in Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a “nose job,” is a popular plastic surgery procedure for men and women who are bothered by the look of their noses. Dr. Evan Ransom is a double board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon known as one of the leading rhinoplasty specialists in California. He specializes in open and closed rhinoplasty with advanced techniques and a focus on patient safety and natural-looking results. Understanding the differences between these techniques can help you determine which approach may be most suitable for your unique needs.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that can address both aesthetic and functional concerns of the nose. It involves manipulating the bone, cartilage, and soft tissues to reshape and resize the nose. Functional concerns like difficulty breathing can also be improved by repairing a deviated septum (the thin wall of cartilage between the nostrils) and opening up the airways. The choice between open and closed rhinoplasty depends on various factors, including the specific goals of the surgery and the extent of changes required. Dr. Ransom has extensive experience with both techniques and will help you choose the best option based on your specific needs and treatment goals.
Reasons to Consider Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty involves making a small incision across the columella, the strip of tissue between the nostrils, in addition to incisions inside the nose. This approach gives Dr. Ransom a direct, unobstructed view of the nasal structures, allowing for more precise modification, especially when working with the nasal tip. More extensive changes can also be made, like narrowing the nasal bridge, shortening a “hooked nose,” or repairing a crooked nose. This can be beneficial when rhinoplasty is received to repair damages caused by a broken nose. Although patients might be concerned about scarring, Dr. Ransom will carefully place the incision so that there is little to no visible scarring and you can enjoy a natural-looking result.
Reasons to Consider Closed Rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty, or scarless rhinoplasty, involves incisions made entirely within the nostrils. This technique is preferred for patients seeking small changes that do not require the underlying nasal structures to be altered. Concerns about the nasal bridge like a dorsal hump are commonly addressed with this technique and a deviated septum can also be treated with a combined septoplasty procedure. Because all incisions are made inside the nose, patients do not have to worry about covering their healing scars. Recovery time is also a bit shorter since the internal structures are left untouched. However, patients should still expect to avoid strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
Schedule a Consultation
Ultimately, the choice between open and closed rhinoplasty should be made after a consultation with Dr. Ransom. He will discuss your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs. To learn more about rhinoplasty surgery in San Francisco, schedule a consultation today at one of our two office locations in Mill Valley and San Francisco, CA.
Dr. Evan Ransom is an Ivy League-educated and Ivy League trained Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon. He is a Double Board Certified Head and Neck Surgeon and Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and fellowship-trained in facial plastic, reconstructive, and laser surgery. His practice is in the San Francisco Bay Area, serving patients from San Francisco, Oakland, Marin County, Palo Alto, Silicon Valley, Walnut Creek, the East Bay, and all over Northern California.
