Does alarplasty narrow the nose? Does it also make nostrils symmetrical? Would the scar be noticeable?

Question

1)Does alarplasty narrow the nose? 2)Does it also make nostrils symmetrical? 3)Would the scar be noticeable when people are close to my face?

Thomas Buonassisi, MD · Answer

Yes you are correct. Alarplasty can narrow the nose and make the nostrils more symetric. I like to place the incisions at the junction of the nostril and cheek to help camouflage the incissions. In most cases the scar can be easily covered with make up until the scar fades.

C. Carson Huynh, MD, DMD, FACS · Answer

Alarplasty is often done in conjunction with Asian rhinoplasty to correct wide base of nose or asymmetric nostrils or it can performed as a stand alone procedure if no further modification to the nose tip or bridge is desired.  Scarring from this procedure is minimal when well executed.  There may be a noticable faint pink line on the skin for the first 4-6 months, which can easily be covered with makeup until normal skin color returns after 6 months.

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Alarplasty, or alar wedge resection will narrow the lower part of the nose quite nicely.  The scars are in the alar crease and typically heal imperceptibly.  The Alarplasty, when done well, is a great procedure. And can even be done under local anesthesia.  Attention to symmetry is a key part of the procedure and can even correct some pre-existing asymmetry.

Charles S. Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

Alarplasty can be used exactly in the manner you describe. It can be used to narrow the nostrils, make them more symmetric and also to reshape them. The scars can be hidden so that they are not readily seen. I prefer a modified internal suture method combined with skin removal to maximize the effect while minimizing the incision.

Eric In Choe, MD · Answer

Alarplasty can be performed to correct deformities of nostril and alar lobule. It can be used to decrease the nostril width and improve the alar flaring by excising the alar base. It can also decrease the thickness of the alar sidewall.

	Although over correction/excision and visible scarring are two most common complications, done well, the scar usually heals very well and is hardly noticeable even as early as 1-2 weeks after the procedure.

Does alarplasty narrow the nose? Does it also make nostrils symmetrical? Would the scar be noticeable?

Answers (10)

Answer: Alarplasty can improve the nostrils

Answer: Alarplasty can improve the nostrils

Answer: Alarplasty can improve deformities of nostril size and asymmetry,

Answer: Alarplasty can improve deformities of nostril size and asymmetry,

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

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Does alarplasty narrow the nose? Does it also make nostrils symmetrical? Would the scar be noticeable?

Answers (10)

Answer: Alarplasty can improve the nostrils

Answer: Alarplasty can improve the nostrils

Answer: Alarplasty can improve deformities of nostril size and asymmetry,

Answer: Alarplasty can improve deformities of nostril size and asymmetry,

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

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