Two main approaches are used in rhinoplasty surgery: the open technique and the closed technique. Closed technique rhinoplasty is the method in which all incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no external mark or stitch scar. This is Prof. Dr. Esin Yalçınkaya's preferred technique, and when applied to the right case, it delivers results equivalent to or better than the open technique.
How Is Closed Technique Rhinoplasty Performed?
In the closed technique, the surgeon reaches the nasal cartilage and bone through incisions made inside the nostrils. The skin is never lifted from the outside. As a result:
- No visible incision scar forms on the outside
- Supporting tissues at the nasal tip are preserved
- Blood supply and nerve damage are minimized
- The recovery process is noticeably shorter
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes an average of 1.5 to 2 hours to complete.
Differences Between the Closed and Open Techniques
| Feature | Closed Technique | Open Technique |
|---|---|---|
| External scar | None | Small columella scar |
| Recovery time | Shorter | Somewhat longer |
| Amount of swelling | Less | More |
| Visibility (for surgeon) | Limited | Wider |
| Complex revision | Limited | More advantageous |
| Experience required | High | Moderate-high |
Who Is the Closed Technique Suitable For?
The closed technique cannot be applied to every patient. Choosing the right case is critical to the success of this technique. In general, the closed technique is preferred for:
- Correcting a nasal hump
- Raising or lowering the nasal bridge
- Moderate reshaping of the nasal tip
- Narrowing the nasal wings
- Addressing functional and aesthetic issues together
What Are the Advantages of the Closed Technique?
1. Leaves No External Scar
In the open technique, a small incision is made on the columella (the strip of tissue separating the nostrils). Since this incision isn't made in the closed technique, no externally visible scar forms at all. This advantage is especially decisive for patients with high aesthetic concerns.
2. Swelling Subsides Faster
In the open technique, some of the supporting tissues at the nasal tip are manipulated. Since these tissues are largely preserved in the closed technique, the resulting swelling is less and subsides faster. Most patients can return to social life within 2 days.
3. Final Results Appear Sooner
In the open technique, swelling at the nasal tip can persist for much longer. With the closed technique, the final appearance of the nose usually emerges within 4-6 months, while with the open technique this period can extend to 9-12 months.
Prof. Dr. Yalçınkaya's Experience with the Closed Technique
Prof. Dr. Esin Yalçınkaya combines the closed technique experience she gained at international rhinoplasty courses with her practice in Ankara. Her high case volume allows her to apply this technique to achieve results comparable to or better than the standard open technique.
During the consultation, each patient's nasal structure is analyzed with digital imaging, and the choice of technique is evaluated together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does closed technique rhinoplasty leave a scar?
No. Since all incisions are made inside the nostrils, no visible stitch marks or scarring form on the outside.
Can the closed technique be used in every case?
It can be used in most cases, but the open technique may be preferred in complex revision cases or noticeable asymmetries, since it provides a wider field of view. The technique is chosen during the examination.
Is there a difference in recovery between the closed and open techniques?
Yes, since tissue trauma is lower with the closed technique, swelling generally subsides faster and recovery is shorter.