There are different approaches to changing the shape of the nose surgically.  There are advantages of one type of operation over another and the surgeon chooses a specific one based on his needs in the operating room.  Because of this, many prospective patients are confused about the categories.

  1. Closed Rhinoplasty – The procedure is performed without any external incisions in the nose. This is an indirect approach that does not allow direct visualization of the parts of the nose.
  2. Open Rhinoplasty – Incision across the columella (the visible strut between the right and left nostrils)  is used to allow direct visualization of the various parts of the nose.
  3. Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty – Injectable fillers are used to change the appearance of the nose.
  4. Septoplasty – Correction of curvature of the partition between the right and left airway.  This has no effect on the outward appearance of the nose.
  5. Turbinectomy – Pruning of excess of filtering structure within the airway. This has no effect on the outward appearance of the nose.