Preservation, structural, open or closed rhinoplasty: understanding the different surgical techniques

Dr Arie Azuelos' blog in Paris

Rhinoplasty is a complex and diverse surgical procedure that can correct the nose aesthetically or functionally. This surgery, one of the most common in cosmetic surgery, offers several techniques adapted to the variety of patients’ individual needs and preferences. Each method, whether open or closed, ultrasonic or medical, has its own specific features and meets different objectives, ranging from the correction of minor defects to more substantial changes.

Rhinoplasty techniques performed by Dr Arié Azuelos

Open or closed approach

  • Open rhinoplasty: this technique involves a small incision on the columella (between the nostrils) for better access and visibility.
  • Closed rhinoplasty: all incisions are made inside the nostrils, offering less visibility but reducing visible scarring.

Preservation rhinoplasty and structural rhinoplasty

  • Preservation rhinoplasty: aims to retain as much of the original nasal structure as possible, reducing alterations.
  • Structural rhinoplasty: this technique involves the reconstruction of nasal structures to improve aesthetics and function.

Primary, secondary or tertiary rhinoplasty

  • Primary rhinoplasty: this is the first surgery on an unoperated nose.
  • Secondary (or revision) rhinoplasty: Dr Arié Azuelos can correct problems resulting from previous surgery.
  • Tertiary rhinoplasty: this may be necessary for more complex operations after several surgeries.

Cosmetic rhinoplasty and functional rhinoseptoplasty

  • Aesthetic rhinoplasty: this procedure focuses on improving the appearance of the nose.

Functional rhinoseptoplasty: corrects structural problems affecting breathing.

Ultrasonic rhinoplasty :

This procedure uses ultrasound to precisely sculpt the nasal bones, allowing for finer, less traumatic modifications.

Medical rhinoplasty :

This is the only non-surgical approach using hyaluronic acid injections to make small cosmetic changes.

How can common nasal defects be corrected?

Correcting a bump on the nose

A hump on the bridge of the nose is a common concern for many patients seeking to improve their facial profile. To correct this defect, techniques such as shaving or resection are employed. These methods involve meticulously shaping the bone and cartilage to flatten the bump, creating a smoother, more harmonious nasal profile. Precision in removing the hump is essential to ensure a natural result that matches the overall proportions of the patient’s face.

Correcting a crooked nose

A deviated or crooked nose can be corrected by careful realignment of the bones and cartilage. This procedure aims to rectify the alignment of the nose so that it looks straight and symmetrical. The process may involve osteotomy, where precise incisions are made in the bones to allow them to be repositioned. Dr. Arié Azuelos also works on the cartilage to ensure that the nose retains its natural, functional shape after correction. This procedure also allows patients with this problem to breathe more easily.

Correcting the projection of the tip of the nose

In the case of a lack of projection, i.e. when the tip of the nose does not extend far enough from the face, specific interventions are required to create an aesthetic balance. This situation can be effectively corrected using cartilage grafts or structural adjustments. The grafts, often taken from other parts of the patient’s nose or ear, are carefully positioned to add support and volume to the tip of the nose. These techniques improve the projection of the tip, while refining its shape for a more defined and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Conversely, too pronounced a projection of the tip of the nose can also be a cause for concern. In such cases, surgery aims to reduce the excessive projection to achieve a more natural proportion with the rest of the face. This reduction is achieved by adjusting or removing part of the cartilage that contributes to the prominent appearance of the tip. The aim is to achieve a smoother, more harmonious profile, while preserving or improving nasal functionality.