Would alarplasty make my nose look smaller? (Photo)

Question

I am happy with the shape of my nose but not the size and my nostrils are wide. Would alarplasty make the nose look smaller?

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

Alar plasty versus rhinoplasty to make the nose look smaller?  It looks like a rhinoplasty to refine the tip as well as decrease projection and correct your hanging columella would be more beneficial. I need to see a full set of photographs to make a better determination or an in person exam.

Stephen Weber MD, FACS · Answer

I don't get the sense that your nostrils are that wide or that there is excessive flare. Alar base reduction is great for addressing those two issues. If you feel that you have too much nostril visible or that the tissue between the nostrils hangs down too far then a rhinoplasty can address those issues. At this point I think you would benefit from an in person consultation where you will have a chance to express exactly what bothers you about your nose. Good luck!Stephen Weber MD, FACSDenver Facial Plastic Surgeon

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

Rhinoplasty to address the size and shape of your nose should help you address your concerns. You have to understand that there is no such thing as the “perfect” nose. As rhinoplasty surgeons, we are able to improve the structure and function of the nose to address specific issues you have with how your nose looks and and how well you can breathe. Perfect symmetry does not exist in nature. Attempts to improve the symmetry of your nose should be aimed at achieving an improvement in your asymmetry to the point where it is no longer very noticeable. If you look carefully enough, you will always be able to find imperfections. The goal is a normal looking nose that is in harmony with the rest of your anatomy.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

An  alar plasty procedure will only make the nostrils narrower, and not have any other effect on the nose. A rhinoplasty procedure can address narrowing and refining the tip, decreasing the projection of the nose, and narrowing the bridge line.

Kimberly Lee, MD · Answer

An alar base reduction can reduce the size of the nostrils; however, if you are looking to decrease the overall size of your nose, an alar base reduction alone usually will not achieve those results.  The best recommendation is to have an in person consultation with a board certified specialist who can assist you with achieving the results you seek.  3-dimensional computer imaging can help you visualize what you may look like afterwards and serve as an important communication tool with your surgeon.

Would alarplasty make my nose look smaller? (Photo)

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Would alarplasty make my nose look smaller? (Photo)

Answers (9)

Answer: alar plasty procedure

Answer: alar plasty procedure

Answer: Alar Base Reduction

Answer: Alar Base Reduction

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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.