Ask a doctor

Large nostrils create a bulbous upturned shape. Could alarplasty be a viable solution? (photo)

I live in Ireland and I am slight concerned about the level of cosmetic surgery in the country. However as I understand it, alarplasty is a relatively straightforward procedure. My main issue is the fact my large nostrils have created a bulbous tip. Would alarpasty narrow the nose, creating a more attractive apperance. Any advice/guidance received will be greatly appreciated.

Doctor Answers 2

November 18th, 2013

Rhinoplasty for bulbous tip and nostril reduction

{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

An alar plasty is only performed to narrow the nostrils. A tip-plasty is required to narrow a bulbous tip. For many examples please see the link below to our rhinoplasty photo gallery

William Portuese, MD
November 13th, 2013

Large nostrils create a bulbous upturned shape. Could alarplasty be a viable solution?

{{ voteCount >= 0 ? '+' + (voteCount + 1) : (voteCount + 1) }}

Alar base reduction will not narrow the tip and tends to make it look larger. I would recommend tip refinement with alar base reduction as an adjunct if necessary.

Kenneth Hughes, MD

Los Angeles, CA

Learn more: http://www.hughesplasticsurgery.com/Rhinoplasty.php

Kenneth B. Hughes, MD
*Treatment results may vary

Related content

View all Rhinoplasty reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.