J. Kevin Duplechain, MD, FACS
1103 Kaliste Saloom Road #300
Lafayette, LA 70508
Phone: (337) 456-3282
Monday–Thursday : 8 a.m.–4:45 p.m. Friday : 8 a.m.–12:00 p.m.

Rhinoplasty Incision Options: Open vs. Closed

Young woman's side profile as she looks off smiling

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure we use to improve overall facial harmony by balancing the proportions of your nose. The procedure can also provide functional benefits by correcting impaired breathing caused by nasal structural defects. 

Lafayette cosmetic surgeon Dr. J. Kevin Duplechain utilizes advanced rhinoplasty techniques to craft noses that look naturally beautiful and also properly perform their essential functions. There are two incision techniques he may use: open or closed. In this post, we explain the difference between the two to help give you an idea of which technique may be the best for you.

Infographic illustrating the incision options for open and closed rhinoplasty surgeries

Closed Rhinoplasty

When using the closed rhinoplasty technique, facial cosmetic surgeon Dr. Duplechain places all surgical incisions inside the nostrils, meaning they are hidden from view and leave no visible scars. 

This is a more conservative technique that is best suited for patients who require less extensive nasal correction. The absence of external incisions can limit Dr. Duplechain’s access to the nasal structures, making more extensive adjustments less predictable without the ability to view all internal anatomy. 

For the right patient, a closed rhinoplasty is favored for its minimal invasiveness and quicker recovery times. Dr. Duplechain’s proficiency in closed rhinoplasty allows him to make precise changes to the nasal structure for a more complementary nose shape that appears completely natural.

Who Should Consider This Technique

This technique may be ideal for individuals seeking nasal bridge improvements, nostril or nasal tip refinement, or minor adjustments to nasal structures. Candidates for closed rhinoplasty typically require less extensive modifications to achieve the nose size and shape they envision. 

Open rhinoplasty involves an external incision for extensive nose reshaping, while closed rhinoplasty is performed entirely within the nostrils, suited for less invasive adjustments.

Open Rhinoplasty

The open rhinoplasty technique uses incisions inside the nostrils, as well as one externally across the narrow strip of tissue separating the nostrils called the columella. This technique gives Dr. Duplechian immediate access to all of the internal nasal structures, which allows him to make more extensive changes to the nose contour. 

It’s important to note that while this technique does involve external incisions, the resulting scars are hidden in the natural contours of the nose, so they are hardly visible, especially after they have fully healed.

Who Should Consider This Technique

Dr. Duplechain typically recommends open rhinoplasty for patients desiring a more noticeable transformation that requires significant reshaping, or those with complex cases. The open procedure is also well-suited for those undergoing revision rhinoplasty or patients with congenital nasal deformities. The accessibility with an open rhinoplasty ensures that the changes both enhance aesthetic appeal and preserve or improve nasal functionality.

Which technique is right for me?

The choice between open and closed rhinoplasty depends on your aesthetic goals and the complexity of the changes desired. During your consultation, Dr. Duplechain will discuss your nose reshaping goals, use video imaging to simulate what your results could look like, and review rhinoplasty before and after photos to compare other patients with similar cases. He will also examine your nasal anatomy before recommending the most suitable approach for achieving a harmonious and natural-looking result.

I have recently had the rhinoplasty procedure done with Dr. Duplechain. I have nothing but GREAT things to say about this wonderful man and his staff… He knew exactly what I wanted and I am so thrilled and satisfied with the results. I can’t thank him enough and I highly recommend him!

– 5-star Google review
Trust Dr. Duplechain with your rhinoplasty 

Dr. J. Kevin Duplechain specializes in open and closed rhinoplasty techniques and is renowned for his exceptional, natural-looking results. He offers personalized consultations to meticulously plan your procedure, ensuring results that beautifully complement your unique features without appearing altered or unnatural.

Whether you’re local to Lafayette or considering traveling from out-of-town for your rhinoplasty, Dr. Duplechain and his outstanding team would be happy to welcome you. We offer in-person and virtual consultations for your convenience. A Diplomate of the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery, his commitment to excellence, coupled with over three decades of experience, has made him a trusted choice for patients seeking not just a change, but a renewal. 

Schedule your consultation with Dr. Duplechain today by calling (337) 456-3282, or click the Contact button at the top of this page to request an appointment. 

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