Your nose is one of the most prominent features of your face. Changing your nose can change the look and shape of your face and your profile. If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, you may be considering rhinoplasty.

Known more colloquially as a “nose job,” rhinoplasty can address medical and cosmetic issues associated with the nose. During rhinoplasty, excess bone and cartilage is removed from the nose to achieve the desired results. There are two common methods for rhinoplasty – open and closed. There are advantages to each method, but the one that is best for you can be discussed with Dr. Wendell Perry during your consultation.

Closed Rhinoplasty

A closed rhinoplasty puts all of the surgical incisions inside the nostrils, so there are no visible, external scars. During a closed rhinoplasty, Dr. Perry makes internal incisions along the inside of the nose and lifts the skin from the nasal framework. Once this is done, the nose can be reshaped. Closed rhinoplasty can be a shorter procedure, but this can vary from patient to patient. With a closed rhinoplasty, there is also less swelling at the tip of the nose and no visible scarring.

Open Rhinoplasty

In an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Perry makes the same incisions as he would for a closed rhinoplasty, only there is an additional incision under the nasal column that separates the nostrils. This additional incision does leave a small visible scar, but allows Dr. Perry to better visualize the inside of the nose. In most cases, this scar heals well and is not noticeable from a conventional distance. During an open rhinoplasty, Dr. Perry has better visibility of the internal anatomy of the nose and can make more precise movements. Open rhinoplasty can be better for nasal deformities as well.

Both open and closed rhinoplasty have advantages and disadvantages, but the procedure that is right for you will ultimately be determined by Dr. Perry. During your consultation, he will discuss your aesthetic concerns and your cosmetic goals. He can offer different options and treatment plans that are best for your needs to ensure you get the results you want. Doctor Perry works with each patient individually and will make recommendations in the best interest of the patient. Contact Dr. Wendell Perry inAlexandria – Woodbridge, VA & Rockville, MD to schedule your consultation and find out if rhinoplasty is right for you.