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What Kind of Scarring Would I Have with Alar Base Reduction?

I've come to the conclusion that Id like a wedge excision procedure (just want to reduce the alar flare without reducing nostril size). However, there seems to be a lot of concerns with the wedge procedure as it leads to some external scarring. I wouldn't mind this if the scar itself was camouflaged with the alar crease. My main concern is the obliteration of the facial alar groove with this procedure. Any thoughts on this? Whats the best way to go about this without obstructing the alar crease?

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6 Doctor Answers | Asked by dandylion

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Rhinoplasty

I have not noted obliteration of the facial alar groove in my patients or those done by other surgeons. I have seen visible scarring because the incision was carried to far up the side of the nose or too far from the crease where the nostril rim meets the upper lip. The latter was the case of a well known respected rhinoplasty surgeon. I have found making sure the outer corner does not go past the shadow from direct overhead lighting and leaving a small flap of skin on the inner corner... more

Scarring with Alar Base Reduction

By placing the incision in the proper location above the groove, there is no risk of obliterating the alar facial crease. You have drawn the excision in the proper position; I hope you are as good a technician as you are an artist. Do not be concerned about the wedge procedure.

Richard W. Fleming, MD

10 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.bevhills.com

Alar base procedure

Alar base procedures can be to reduce the flare or the nasal base width. When performing this procedure you try to maintain the groove just as you stated. Actually the incision is made just above the groove to maintain that natural curve.

Steven Wallach, MD

13 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

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Scarring with alar base reduction.

In 35 years Ihave never had to revise any alar base excisions. If you see an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon you should not have a problem.

Toby Mayer, MD

7 reviews

Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon

www.bevhills.com

Alar Base Reduction

The scars for alar base reduction are placed into the shadow of the alar crease to minimize any visible scarring. If done correctly, alar base reduction should not obliterate the facial alar groove as it is recreated when the incision is sutured back together. Please consult with a board certified specialist who can best assist you in achievingthe results you desire.

Alar base reduction

When performing an alar base reduction (ABR) with a wedge excision removed from the ala, it is critical to leave a 1mm rim of alar tissue against the face that the surgeon will sew to. If the wedge is taken out flush against the face, you run the risk of obliterating the alar facial groove/crease, as you say. Hope this helps.

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