Are alar batten grafts cosmetically noticeable?

This is a very complicated question to answer without a complete physical examination. My best advice would be for you to get a second opinion from another surgeon who has experience performing rhinoplasty to correct nasal obstruction. Be sure the surgeon you choose has experience with this type of rhinoplasty and is certified by one of the following boards:- American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery- American Board of Plastic Surgery- American Board of Otolaryngology These are the only three boards that certify surgeons to perform rhinoplasty surgery. 

 It is more important to pick Your rhinoplasty surgeon  than to pick the correct  rhinoplasty procedure, since rhinoplasty is extremely technical and complicated for the lay person to try to attempt to understand. There is internal nasal valve collapse and external nasal valve collapse. Spreader grafts are placed on the internal nasal valve to widen it.  Batten grafts are placed across the midportion of the lower lateral cartilage tangentially and inserted into the piriform aperture of the nose.  Batten grafts are only slightly cosmetically noticeable. Alar rim grafts also help with airflow holding the rim open. At the time of examination and consultation, your  rhinoplasty surgeon can determine which of these grafts, if any are required helpful airflow issues.

The answer to your question depends upon the degree of collapse of your valve, whether it is just functionally impaired or if it is visually contracted also. A spreader graft can open the valve on the affected side and also restore contour on the contracted side and it can be done on one side only. A batten graft, on the other hand, is usually done on both sides for balance.I hope this helps. Good luck