Not every nose job is the same. Today, rhinoplasty includes several techniques designed for different needs. Some types will focus on appearance, while others are designed and created to improve breathing or fix structural problems in the nose. In any case, it’s very important to understand the main types of rhinoplasty. This can and will help you choose an option that fits your goals and your unique anatomy.
The right choice will, however, depend on careful planning. You need to set realistic expectations and pick an experienced specialist. That’s why we prepared this article. We want to explain the different types of rhinoplasty, so let’s begin.
A recent systematic review comparing open and closed rhinoplasty techniques found that both approaches yield similar functional and aesthetic outcomes in terms of patient satisfaction, nasal obstruction, and complications, suggesting that the choice of technique should be individualized based on patient anatomy and surgeon expertise rather than presumed superiority of one method.
What Are the Different Types of Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can change how the nose looks, improve the function of the nose, or do both at the same time. Some procedures reshape the outside. Others correct internal problems, like, for example, a deviated septum.
The best option will, however, largely depend on your facial structure and your specific breathing concerns. The entire process starts with a consultation with a board certified surgeon. This will help you uncover the most suitable treatment plan.
Here are the most popular options.
1. Open Rhinoplasty
The surgeon uses a small incision at the base of the nose. From there, they can actually see the internal structures clearly, and this better visibility is essential if they need to reshape the cartilage and bone or fix the nasal tip.
They will go with this technique for complex cases or major structural changes. It is also common in revision procedures.
Recovery usually takes slightly longer. However, the results are usually precise and pretty predictable.
2. Closed Rhinoplasty
Here, a surgeon makes incisions inside the nostrils. This, in turn, means that there are no visible external scars. This method is best for moderate corrections that do not require a fully-exposed nasal structure.
The closed option leads to less swelling and faster recovery times. You will most likely go for it if you need to smooth the bridge, refine the shape, or improve the overall balance of your nose.
3. Tip Plasty (Nose Tip Rhinoplasty)
Tip plasty focuses only on the nasal tip. It does not change the rest of the nose. This procedure is suitable for patients who are looking to adjust the projection or rotation of their nose. It is also good for people who want to improve symmetry.
The changes are limited here, and the recovery is usually quicker than with full surgical rhinoplasty, which makes tip plasty a solid option when the bridge and overall structure already look balanced enough.
4. Septorhinoplasty (Functional + Cosmetic)
Here, we have a combination of cosmetic changes and functional repair, as this procedure improves the appearance of the nose while correcting the nasal septum simultaneously.
This procedure will be recommended to you if you have breathing problems caused by any kind of internal obstruction. By correcting the structure, septorhinoplasty aims to improve breathing and create better facial harmony, and all that in one procedure.
5. Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is something you don’t want, but sometimes, you need it. It is performed after a previous nose surgery that wasn’t that successful. The goal is to improve appearance or fix functional issues.
This procedure is more complex because the anatomy has already been changed. Scar tissue and reduced cartilage will probably make surgery more difficult. That’s why it is so important to choose a plastic surgeon with experience in revision cases.
6. Liquid Rhinoplasty (Non-Surgical Nose Job)
And finally, we have a non-surgical option. This procedure uses dermal fillers to adjust the shape of the nose, but only temporarily. Fillers can eliminate small bumps, improve symmetry, or create a straighter profile.
The results are immediate, but again, they are only temporary. If you need some minor changes, you can go for it, but remember that it cannot make the nose smaller or fix any forms of structural problems.
Here’s a quick comparison table.
Procedure Type | Best For | Main Benefit |
Open rhinoplasty | Complex structural changes | Maximum precision and visibility |
Closed rhinoplasty | Moderate corrections | Faster recovery, no external scar |
Tip plasty | Tip refinement only | Targeted improvement |
Septorhinoplasty | Breathing + cosmetic concerns | Restores form and function |
Revision rhinoplasty | Correcting previous surgery results | Improves structure, appearance, or function |
Liquid rhinoplasty | Minor cosmetic changes | Non-surgical, temporary results |
Specialized Types of Rhinoplasty
Some patients need a customized approach based on their facial structure and skin thickness.
That’s why we have male rhinoplasty that focuses on preserving strong, defined features. Female rhinoplasty, on the other hand, usually aims for softer and more subtle contours. Finally, ethnic rhinoplasty improves the shape while maintaining cultural characteristics.
There is also teen rhinoplasty, but this one is only performed after facial growth is complete.
Finally, we have micro-rhinoplasty. This refers to small, precise adjustments for patients who need minimal changes.
All these variations reflect the wide range of types of nose and the need for personalized planning.
Choosing the Right Type of Rhinoplasty
The right procedure depends on your goals, your anatomy, and your family medical history. Some patients need structural correction to restore airflow, while others are looking for aesthetic improvement through cosmetic surgery.
When choosing a surgeon, experience and clear communication matter a lot. A qualified specialist will evaluate your nasal structure, skin thickness, and long-term stability.
If you are someone who is researching “rhinoplasty Turkey” because they offer excellent care at much lower prices, before you pick a clinic, make sure to review credentials, clinic standards, and before-and-after results.
The best results come from a personalized plan that balances appearance and function.
FAQs
Which type of rhinoplasty is best for breathing problems?
Septorhinoplasty is usually the best option when structural issues affect airflow. It corrects internal anatomy while improving appearance.
Is liquid rhinoplasty permanent?
No. Results typically last between 6 and 18 months, depending on the filler used.
Can rhinoplasty make my nose smaller?
Yes. Surgical rhinoplasty can reduce size, refine shape, and improve facial balance.
How long does recovery take?
Most swelling improves within a few weeks. Final results appear gradually over several months.