Which Alar Base Reduction Methods Maintains Most Natural Nostril Curve?

Question

Hello, what method of alar base reduction maintains the most natural nostril curve with the lowest risk of retraction or a notched look? Thanks!

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

Deciding which alar base reduction technique to use is only half the battle.  The angle of the incision and the precision of the skin closure will determine how natural of a result you achieve.  If you have access to a medical school library or can order a copy of this article in the 1996 Clinics in Plastic Surgery, you may find the photos and diagrams to be descriptive and helpful.

	 

	Guyuron B, Behmand RA. Alar base abnormalities. Classification and correction. Clin Plast Surg. 1996;23(2):263-70.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear Kricket88,

	 

	The main question is not in how to perform a given alarplasty because every patient is different and the nasal anatomy of every patient is unique in its own way.

	That being said, reduction of nostrils should be approached conservatively and delicately if it is to be the best fit for the patient.

	Many times, an alarplasty is not the answer but a rhinoplasty addressing the nasal tip.

	Without physical examination, it is hard to provide you with a definitive opinion.

	Nonetheless, I recommend that you consult with board certified surgeons of extensive experience to make a well informed decision; commendable results require highly skilled surgeons for the job.

	Thank you for your inquiry.

	The best of wishes to you.

	Dr. Sajjadian

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

There's no one best way to reduce the nostril width. It depends a lot on your anatomy. A surgeon experienced in performing alar base reduction should be able to determine the best approach after seeing your nose and discussing your goals.

David C. Mabrie, MD · Answer

Nostril reduction is a frequent request in my practice, here are three key facts to know:

	
		Be conservative!  Removing all the curve and making the nostrils straight doesn't make the nose look better, it makes it looks unnatural.  You can always take more, so fight the urge to be too aggressive.
	
		Is it really your nostrils?  Believe it or not, a lot of people who think they need nostril reduction, actually just need better tips and better bridges.  (see our website)
	
		Choose correct procedure.  Small excision on the outside of the nostril reduce the flare (curvature), small excision on the inside tuck the nose in, reducing the width.


	I hope this was helpful, good luck in your search for information!

Alexander Ovchinsky, MD · Answer

Alar base reduction should be tailored to your individual anatomy. So, to give you an answer which method has potentially less problems is not going to do you any good, because this mathod may not be applicable to you. Finding an experienced dsurgeon is what would matter the most.

Jason Litner, MD · Answer

Hi kricket88,

	 

	That's a great question and one that touches on a concern that many patients have who are considering nostril reduction. The answer is that an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon should individualize the best technique to your specific anatomy since everyone will have a slightly different nostril shape. Some have too much nostril width with minimal nostril flare or rounding, some have more flare and less width, and others will have a combination of both issues. We find that a combined Weir and sill reduction provides the most natural reduction while maintaining the nostrils' normal curvature. You can read more about this on our blog- search rhinoplastyinbeverlyhills for how to narrow nostrils naturally

	 

	All the best

Robert Shumway, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Internal & External Weir incisions are approaches that affect the shape of nostrils and can be used with rhinoplasty procedures. Also, various types of alar reduction surgeries work well to change nostril configuration!

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

Without pictures it is difficult to recommend a specific technique. The artistic skills of your surgeon will dictate the correct choice of many variations in alar base reduction.

Which Alar Base Reduction Methods Maintains Most Natural Nostril Curve?

Answers (8)

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