I've heard that an alarplasty could help with nostrils that overwiden when smiling, but would the result actually be noticeable? To the extent that it looks normal? My thinking is that if a small section of the nostril is removed from each side and then reattached to the same spot, that spot will still shift to the same place when smiling meaning a nose that is still the same width when animated. Am I getting this wrong? How common of an issue is this and how high should my expectations be?
Answers (5)
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May 21, 2020
Answer: Alar plasty will not reduce a nose that over widens upon smiling.
Correction of excess alar nostril size or flaring, can be corrected with alar base reduction. However, this does warrant an external base scar which in a high majority of patients is almost imperceptible long term.
You are correct in that cinch sutures may change your smile. However, it could improve with time and may not need to be removed. I would seek the advice and consultation of your rhinoplasty surgeon.
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