Easy fix for alar rim retraction? (Photo)

Question

I got a rhinoplasty almost a year ago, and I’m noticing what I believe to be alar rim retraction on one side. It shows up a lot in pictures, and I’m not sure how noticeable it is in person. I’m worried about it, and I’m wondering if there is any in office procedure that can be done to help the appearance. I’m not sure I have the means to go through a revision. Is there anything else anyone recommends? Thank you!

Suleyman Tas, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Hello, thank you for the question and provided photos. Since you are about to  complete your  healing your nose can be improved better, balanced and well-proportioned. Based on the photos it seems that your tip is a bit droopy and you have projeciton issue. A revision rhinoplasty can create significant alteration and you can have natural, well-proportioned and balanced nose.You can benefit from Closed technique which provides maximal healing and eliminates a scar on your columella.Best Regards,

William Portuese, MD · Answer

There is no easy fix for an alar rim retraction.  Revision rhinoplasty is more difficult than a primary rhinoplasty due to the fact that the  contraction forces and healing are less predictable, there  has been previous alterations to the normal anatomy, and scar tissue present. The photographs demonstrate normal alar rims, and no further surgery is indicated.  When patients have severe alar retraction, a composite skin/cartilage graft harvested from the ear is placed on the inside of the nostril to expand the rim downwards.  For more information and many examples,  please see the link and the video below

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

The asymmetry of the contour of your alar rims is visible in the frontal view. consider the placement of a small alar rim cartilage graft on the retracted side to lower the nostril rim.

Easy fix for alar rim retraction? (Photo)

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Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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

Easy fix for alar rim retraction? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Revision Rhinoplasty

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