Cosmetic Surgery

Open Rhinoplasty

Full surgical access for complex nose reshaping

Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella — the tissue between the nostrils — giving the surgeon full direct access to all nasal cartilages and bones. This approach is preferred for complex corrections including tip reshaping, significant hump reduction, revision surgery and cases where grafting is required.

The columellar scar, when closed with fine sutures and given time to heal, becomes virtually invisible. The open approach allows the surgeon to work with both hands and direct vision rather than relying entirely on feel, making it the preferred technique for technically complex primary or revision rhinoplasty.

Key Benefits

Direct visual access to all nasal cartilages and bones
Preferred for complex tip corrections, revisions and grafting
Greater surgical precision for asymmetry correction
Columellar scar heals to near-invisibility over 6–12 months

Is This Treatment Right For You?

Patients with significant tip deformity or bulbosity
Those requiring cartilage grafting for structural support
Revision rhinoplasty cases following previous surgery elsewhere
Individuals with significant dorsal and tip complexity

What to Expect

Consultation & 3D Imaging

Nasal anatomy analysed; open vs closed technique decision confirmed with imaging.

Anaesthesia

Performed under general anaesthesia; 2–3 hours for primary cases, longer for revisions.

Surgery

Columellar incision, cartilage reshaping, hump reduction and/or grafting as planned.

Splinting & Recovery

External splint for 7–10 days; bruising resolves over 2–3 weeks.

Recovery & Aftercare

Splint removed at 7–10 days. Most patients return to work within 10–14 days. Swelling resolves over 6–12 months, with the refined result fully visible at 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the scar from open rhinoplasty be visible?

The columellar scar is very small and placed in the natural shadow beneath the nose. With proper closure and time it becomes very difficult to see, even at close range.

Is open rhinoplasty more painful than closed?

Both approaches carry similar post-operative discomfort — congestion and pressure rather than sharp pain. Pain is well managed with prescribed medication.