Subtle alar base reduction for width? Is it possible to reduce nostrils but still keep the original shape of the nose? (photo)

Hello,It is very possible to specifically target your nostrils in an alarplasty reduction procedure. Nostril narrowing can be accomplished with multiple techniques depending on the need.  All the best, Deepak Dugar, MDScarless Rhinoplasty ExpertBeverly Hills, CA 90210

I believe it is difficult to alter any part of the nose and not change the overall appearance. I have had good results just using Botox to the muscles that cause the nasal flaring. These muscles are active only when smiling and have no impact on other aspects of facial expression. Most plastic surgeons know this anatomy well and would be able to target the appropriate muscles. You can smile and express yourself normally, but without flaring of the nostrils. Any asymmetry that is present at rest however will not change. 

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your
photograph, you may benefit from a tip refining rhinoplasty. Your surgeon can
accomplish this by trimming, suturing, and reshaping the cartilage in your
lower nose. You may also benefit from a subtle alar base reduction.  Make sure you specifically look at before and after
pictures of real patients who have had this surgery performed by your surgeon
and not just a computer animation system. The most important
aspect is to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. I recommend that you seek
consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate
you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

  A stand-alone alar plasty can accomplish narrowing wide nostrils.  For a subtle improvement, the incision but can be located completely on the inside of the nostrils.  For a moderate reduction, there will be an incision at the alar crease at the base of the nostril. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient surgery.  For more information and many examples, please see the link and the video below

Dear lanafama,It is indeed possible to narrow and reduce the nostrils with rhinoplasty surgery.  The nostril base narrowing may be relatively straight forward.  The asymmetry correction may not.  You might require cartilage grafts to address this issue.  Good luck!

Other views are important to see to evaluate your nostrils. It is possible to make them a bit smaller if they bother you. I will say that all noses flare and look a bit wider with smiling.

Narrowing of the nostrils can be performed as a standalone procedure, without altering the remainder of the nose. Schedule 2-3 consultations with Board-certified Rhinoplasty surgeons to see what your options are.Best wishes!  Harry V. Wright MD, Sarasota, Florida

It is possible to only narrow the alar bases without doing a rhinoplasty -- but you need to be seen and evaluated to know if it is the right thing to do for you. It is impossible to know if it will help from those photos.