Nostril retainers and dilators to stretch nostrils after alarplasty?

Question

Is it possible to use nostril retainers or dilators to significantly stretch the nostrils after an alarplasty made them too small? A doctor suggested it, and I’ve seen a couple of patients say they’ve gotten their nostrils to be bigger and stay that way through continued daily use for atleast 1 to 2 years.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

It is possible to stretch the nostrils slowly and gradually over time. Nostrils have only soft tissue along the borders and especially on the sides. This can be stretched using a dilator every day. You have to be careful as to what you use. Stretching can cause an ulcer or infection if not done properly. Make sure you are not doing it on your own without a surgeon's supervision. 
Best
Dr. J

David M. Kowalczyk, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Hello! Great question. A nostril dilator or retainer can help to open the nostril and create less contracture and scar tissue. You're correct that they need to be worn often and for a long time in order to resist those forces. It would also depend on the timing of when you started using them relative to the alar base reduction. If it's been awhile, there may not be as much improvement compared with using them shortly after the untoward result is noticed. Hope this helps!

Nostril retainers and dilators to stretch nostrils after alarplasty?

Answers (2)

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