Is your nose too long, narrow, wide or crooked? It sits in the middle of your face for all the world to see and there is no way to hide it.
As a result, the nose is one of the most common parts of the body that people most want to change about themselves through cosmetic surgery.
If you are thinking about rhinoplasty to correct something you don't like about your nose, you should know that there are two techniques-open and closed procedures.
An open rhinoplasty means that the incisions are made outside the nose-one just under the columnella, which is the divider between the nostrils, and sometimes inside the corner creases of the nostrils.
The incisions are very tiny and should not leave obvious scarring, but it is always a possibility with this procedure.
A closed procedure, as you might have guessed, means that the incisions are made inside the nose.
Where they are made depends on what, specifically, you are having fixed.
But, with this procedure there is no risk of visible scarring.
If that's the case, then why is there even a choice, you wonder? Wouldn't everyone choose the closed technique? Probably, but there are some limitations to the procedure.
While it may be possible for you to choose which rhinoplasty technique is used, sometimes you have no choice.
If you require a revision of a previous procedure or need extensive restructuring and contouring of the nose, the open technique is necessary.
This is because it is difficult for the surgeon to completely see the area he is working in.
But, if you are just having a fairly simple first time procedure; you should be able to use the closed approach.
However, check with your surgeon first.
If you have your heart set on a closed rhinoplasty, he'll be able to tell you if it's possible or not.
And, some surgeons only utilize one method or the other because of their personal preferences.
Of course, there are other questions you should ask your surgeon before you get to the rhinoplasty options.
Always make sure he is a board certified plastic surgeon who is licensed to practice in your state.
You also want to be comfortable with whoever you choose to perform the procedure.
During your consultation, ask a lot of questions.
Does he answer everything to your satisfaction? Is he personable and understanding of your situation? Choosing an experienced surgeon that you trust is one of the best ways to ensure you get the results you want.
But, you have to be very clear about what you want to achieve.
If it doesn't turn out like you anticipated or a mistake is made, a revision surgery is necessary.
Obviously this requires another rhinoplasty with general anesthesia and more incisions and, as stated above, the open technique is usually used for revision.
So, scarring is more of a possibility.
You can avoid this by doing your homework and being prepared with questions.
You can't hide your nose, so it's got to be done right.