Too much nostril show - what procedure can improve this? (Photos)

Question

I feel my nostrils are very circular and noticeable from all angles. Almost like my bose is too upturned? What kind if procedure would need to be done to correct this?

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your photographs, you may benefit from a rhinoplasty and one goal could be to improve the alar retraction. A surgeon can accomplish this by trimming, suturing, and reshaping the cartilage in your lower nose. Fascial grafts may also be used to help improve tip refinement. Extended alar contour grafts and tensioning of the tip could improve the alar retraction. With good surgical technique, you could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

Your increased nostril show is from retraction of the alar in the soft triangle.  You will need cartilage graft to lower the alar rim.  You will not need a full rhinoplasty.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The nostrils are a bit wide and also have a flare. This can be improved with an alarplasty. 
Alarplasty involves taking out a wedge from the side of the nostrils and stitching it back into the nasal base. This reduces the length of the alae (nostril rims) and that reduces the show of the nostrils. 
Regards
Dr. Janjua

Too much nostril show - what procedure can improve this? (Photos)

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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

Too much nostril show - what procedure can improve this? (Photos)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

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