Rhinoplasty is the surgical reshaping of the nose.  It is probably the oldest plastic surgical procedure, going back to ancient India. In it's modern reincarnation, it is still probably the most challenging operation surgeons perform. Its successful execution requires skill as well as a keen eye for aesthetics and facial proportions. Experience and clinical excellence are key for best results.

Once upon a time all rhinoplasties were "closed", that is, the surgery was performed through one nostril. This is a simplification, actually, but essentially, there were no visible scars. Expertise required a lot of practice and the learning curve was steep. Even teaching the technique was difficult, since it's tough to get more then one person at a time to see up one tiny nostril. Because of these limitations, the technique of "open" rhinoplasty became popular.