Rhinoplasty (AKA ‘a nose job’) is no longer the guilty celebrity secret it once was. Nose surgery is not a matter of shame or embarrassment. And it is not limited to the wealthy few. It’s simply a way to help people feel better. Whether medically or aesthetically. Often both. But while people are generally a lot more open about having rhinoplasty now, the procedure itself can still be open to confusion. Patients often seek surgery, not fully understanding the options available to them. One of which is keyhole rhinoplasty. So, what do you need to know?
Keyhole Rhinoplasty: Everything You Need to Know
What is keyhole rhinoplasty?
There are two main types of surgical rhinoplasty. Open and closed.
· Open rhinoplasty involves an incision being made into the tissue that divides the nostrils (the columella). This allows the surgeon open access to the interior structure of the nose. It will leave a scar. But in most cases, it will become unnoticeable over time.
· Closed rhinoplasty (AKA keyhole) is managed purely through incisions made to the interior of the nostrils. This procedure leaves no outward scarring.
Is there any benefit to keyhole rhinoplasty?
We’ve already mentioned that this procedure leaves no outward scarring. But because keyhole rhinoplasty is less invasive, it also usually causes less swelling. And the surgery takes less time to complete. Often as little as 30 minutes, depending on the nature of the alteration.
Are there any disadvantages to keyhole rhinoplasty?
Keyhole rhinoplasty is only suitable for a limited number of alterations. More complex revisions will require open rhinoplasty. Where the surgeon can clearly see the nose. Both its shape, without having to factor in the stretching of the skin. And the anatomic structures, so any relevant diagnoses can be made – such as when an issue may be impairing a patient’s breathing.
Keyhole rhinoplasty is also a lot more difficult to perform. This means that it is offered by far fewer surgeons than open rhinoplasty. And it is particularly important that you find a highly experienced, well-reputed surgeon to work with.
What adjustments can be made with keyhole rhinoplasty?
The most common revisions made by keyhole rhinoplasty are:
· Bump removal. All nose shapes can be beautiful. But if you have what is commonly termed a ‘roman nose’ and are uncomfortable with the bump, or have a lump on your nose following an injury, keyhole rhinoplasty can be used to remove or rearrange small amounts of cartilage or bone.
· Septoplasty. If you have a deviated septum, it can impact your breathing. Rhinoplasty can be used to remove any obstructions.
Nose augmentation surgery, where bone from the hip, elbow, skull, or cartilage from the ear, is used to build up the shape of the nose, is usually performed via open surgery.
What anaesthetic is used for keyhole rhinoplasty?
Keyhole rhinoplasty can be performed using either general or local anaesthetic. Your surgeon will discuss the options most suited to your particular procedure and circumstances.
Keyhole rhinoplasty cannot provide the answer to every patient’s needs. But if you require a relatively small adjustment, it can offer a fast, effective solution, with a faster recovery time.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, book a consultation to find out how Rajan Uppal could help.
