Is there a such thing as a "quick-fix" nose job?

Reducing the alar width can benefit some patients in whom the only problem is wide nostrils. It is in fact an excellent procedure. Of course caution is necessary not to overreduce the nostrils, creating a "cannon" effect of the nose, with thick nostrils but not enough lumen. Alar base reduction can also... more

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... more

In my practice we see a good number of ethnic rhinoplasty patients (primarily Asian and African American), and I have yet to see a patient who was a good candidate for any of the "Quick Fix Nose Job" procedures.  As Dr. Moelleken and Dr. Shah point out - these techniques usually involve... more

Respectfully, I would have to disagree with the panel on this one.  A rhinoplasty procedure performed by an experienced plastic surgeon takes into account countless procedures individualized for the specific anatomic subunits of the nose.  In the initial assesment of your nose, I would assess the... more

My understanding of your question is: Do I need a full rhinoplasty if my only concern is nostril width? The answer to that question is usually no.  I always start the rhinoplasty consultation asking the patient what they don't like about their nose.  Surgeon must be careful not to impose our standard... more

Patients can achieve subtle, yet remarkable results with non-surgical and "limited" rhinoplasty.  In my practice, we see numerous patients from all ethnic backgrounds seeking to refine their nose and characteristics - not change them.  Small changes can make a big difference. Non-surgical... more

When considering surgery on your body, I would caution you to watch out for anything advertised as a "Quick Fix." This is even more important for Rhinoplasty. The nose is very complex and you should do considerable research before letting just anyone operate on you. The nose has several underlying parts... more

If all you need to fix is nostril width, then this is a good option for you, and should only take about ten days to heal. If its anything other than nostril width that is causing the problem (a bump in the nose caused by bone, etc) then you will have to get traditional rhinoplasty surgery.

It is very hard to "fix" a small area of the nose without creating problems elsewhere. The nose is a 3-dimensional tripod structure. To reduce it in one area without balancing the other areas would create facial disharmony. You can't necessarily perform alar base procedures that won't change tip... more

The procedure that you are referring to is known as an alar base reduction. If your nostril width or shape is the ONLY thing that concerns you about your nose, then this may be the quick fix for you. It is not meant to address other problems with the nose, such as humps, septal deviations, large nasal tips.... more