[Open rhinoplasty--indication, technique and results].

Authors in the recent American literature stimulated the discussion of external approaches to rhinoplasty surgery. Occasionally even the experienced surgeon has been confronted with situations where an open approach is advantageous. In the author's series of 410 rhinoplasties in the last two years, the external approach has been used in 7.3% of cases. Two-thirds of open rhinoplasties were revisions. The technique consists of a transverse columella incision that cuts only the skin (Type A) or elevates skin and medial crura as a "composite flap" (Type B). Indications and results of both techniques are demonstrated.