Alar base reduction

The procedure that you describe sounds like alar base reduction. In some ethnic noses, this can be a beneficial procedure. A couple of words of warning: 1) The procedure is not for everyone. For some people, reducing the width of the nose can produce a poor cosmetic result when done alone. In addition, some people have what appears to be a wide nostril when in fact it is not wide, it is just not tall enough. Alar base reduction would not be the answer in this case. 2) Be ware of too much reduction. Reducing the alar base too much can cause signficant breathing problems. 3) Be careful of the incision. Alar base reduction when done correctly can have very well hidden scars. When done poorly, scars are very visible and can be difficult to camoflauge. Consultation with a surgeon who is skilled in rhinoplasty and offers more than just a 'quick fix' is your best option.

As with most things in life, there are no short cuts in rhinoplasty. Don't be fooled by gimicky "sales" tactics or promises of a "quick fix".

Nostril reduction surgery (called Alarplasty / Alar Base Reduction) is a procedure that can narrow the width of the nostril base, decrease the amount of nostril flaring, and/or decrease the size of the nostrils. This can be performed alone, or in conjunction with reshaping of the other parts of the nose with a formal rhinoplasty.

To get a better understanding of what your nose would look like after surgery, your prospective rhinoplasty surgeon should be able to show you before and after computer simulations. Many rhinoplasty surgeons use computer imaging, and recently 3D rhinoplasty imaging has become available (see http://cbs11tv.com/health/Rhinoplasty.plastic.surgery.2.1077611.html).