What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile. (Photos)

Question

I like my nose when I'm not smiling but when I smile my nostrils look much larger. I notice when some people smile their nostrils do not change while others, like mine, nostrils widen when they smile. What is happening anatomically for this to occur? And can it be addressed non-surgically for example with Botox or is this something that can only be addressed surgically with an alarplasty?

Edgardo Zavala, MD · Answer

The only way that I know to solve your concern is what is called an alar wedge reduction. This is a simple 30 minute surgery that done well leaves no scars. I would avoid non surgical options that would only frustrate you due to poor results.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Since your nose is attached to your cheeks, when your cheeks elevate with smiling, this causes dilation of the base of the nose in everybody. If this is your only concern about your nose, I do not believe there is any non-surgical intervention to consider. Thank you for this question. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

You are describing a fairly common condition. Since the flaring of the nostrils relates to the dynamic actions of the tiny muscles controlling the wings (alae) of your nose, this can often be easily addressed via the proper placement of a couple of microdroplets of Botox to suppress the upward pull of the muscles responsible for the flaring. The two other currently available injectable neuromodulators (Dysport and Xeomin) may be also be used for this.  In experienced hands, the treatment should take no more than thirty seconds. Make certain that you consult with a board certified aesthetic physician with experience and expertise in the advanced uses of Botox. Best of luck

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Well-placed Botox to decrease a nostril flare. You'll want someone meticulous. See an expert for a formal evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,Thanks for your question. One option to reduce nostril flare is to inject Botox in strategic areas around the nose to reduce muscle activity that leads to flaring. Another option is to surgically narrow the base of your nose so that the flare in less obvious when you smile. Botox is a great first step because you get to see what surgery might look like before you run the risks of surgery. I would recommend that you consult with a Botox specialist who is also a rhinoplasty specialist for more information.Good luck,Dr. Shah

What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Improving a Nostril Flare with Botox/Xeomin/Dysport

Answer: Improving a Nostril Flare with Botox/Xeomin/Dysport

Answer: What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile.

Answer: What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile.

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Everything you need to know about Nonsurgical Nose Job

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What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile. (Photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: Improving a Nostril Flare with Botox/Xeomin/Dysport

Answer: Improving a Nostril Flare with Botox/Xeomin/Dysport

Answer: What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile.

Answer: What can be done surgically or otherwise to reduce nostril flare when I smile.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Nonsurgical Nose Job

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.