Can I have an alarplasty and lip lift done at the same time? Hoping to achieve more narrow nostrils and teeth show (photo)

Question

I've had several revision rhinoplasties to correct a collapsed septum after the initial rhino, mostly closed, but two open.i do have scars on the sides of my nostrils as well as at the septum. I want to have an alarplasty to further narrow and even them. I also want a lip lift to improve tooth show, that's the sole purpose. I'm deeply worried about lip lift scarring, so should I have these procedures separately, or together?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing the details and your concerns. Given your history of multiple rhinoplasties and existing scars on your nostrils and septum, it’s understandable to be cautious.

Technically, an alarplasty and a lip lift can be performed during the same surgical session, but there are some important considerations:

Healing and scarring: Each procedure involves delicate tissue in the central face. Since you already have scars from previous surgeries, combining procedures could increase the risk of visible scarring, delayed healing, or changes in tissue tension that might affect the final aesthetic of both areas.

Tissue response: The lip lift incision is small but very noticeable if healing is not optimal. Since your primary concern is minimal scarring, separating the procedures allows each area to heal without influencing the other, giving a better chance at an optimal cosmetic result.

Aesthetic outcome: Doing them together might slightly compromise how precise each correction can be, especially in your case with nostril asymmetry and prior revisions. Staging the procedures can allow for more controlled and predictable results.

In summary, while combining them is possible, from a healing and scarring perspective, doing the lip lift separately is generally safer, especially since your main concern is lip scarring. This approach can also let you assess the changes from the alarplasty before deciding on the exact lip lift technique.

It’s completely normal to feel anxious about scars—your caution is appropriate, and careful planning is key for a natural and balanced outcome.

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Both procedures can be done simultaneously with no problems.  It is actually preferred to do it this way.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Can I have an alarplasty and lip lift done at the same time? Hoping to achieve more narrow nostrils and teeth show (photo)

Answers (2)

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