I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

Question

I am an 18 year old female looking to get an alar base reduction at the end of this year - i have no intention of getting a full rhinoplasty. Would this surgery alone make a huge difference to my nose? Also, how much does general anaesthetic usually cost as an add on? I'm a bit nervous to go under just local anaesthesia. Thank you!

Guy Watts, MBBS (Hons), FRACS (Plast) · Answer

Thank you for your question an images. I do not think an alar base reduction alone would make a huge difference to your nose. The images provided block the medial aspect of your eyes which is a measure that I use to assess the requirement for alar base reduction. You do have very thick sebaceous skin over the tip of your nose which will add some challenges to your rhinoplasty and also significantly contribute to the width of your nose. I would recommend talking to a plastic surgeon familiar with rhinoplasty to assess your options.RegardsDr Guy Watts

Howard Webster, MBBS (Hons), FRACS · Answer

Hi there,Rhinoplasty is an exacting procedure, and the assessment of a nose is complex.  It takes years of training and experience to translate what the patient wants into a surgical plan most likely to meet those needs.I very much doubt an alar base reduction alone will be the optimal procedure for you.  I think most likely tip grafting or tip / supratip relationship improvement will be more important. That's the main problem, not the width.However:  The place to start is a consultation with an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon whom you can talk to comfortably, and to be able to articulate what it is you're seeking. What I'm saying is:  Don't design the operation yourself, you really can't know what options there are for shape change.  The best way to achieve what you're seeking is to be able to explain very clearly what kind of nose shape you're seeking.  If you collect pictures of noses you like, for example, that's extremely helpful for the surgeon. Take your time, and it should be a positive experience.  I only undertake rhinoplasty under GA - much more pleasant for everybody!All the bestHoward WebsterPlastic Surgeon

John Layke, DO, FACS · Answer

Although I would recommend a full rhinoplasty WITH alar base reduction in order to dramatically change the appearance of your nose, an alar base reduction alone will change the shape of your nose for the better.  I would recommend seeking out a Board-Certified plastic surgeon who will accurately examine your nose and develop a plan according to your wishes.  The cost of anesthesia will vary by demographic area and alar base resections are often done under local anesthesia.  Best wishes!

Stella Desyatnikova, MD · Answer

It is important when considering Rhinoplasty that you seek a
consultation with a Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon that will use
digital imaging and thorough examination to give you an accurate projection of
your results after surgery.  You and your
surgeon should discuss what you can expect from alar base reduction versus full
rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will help you decide on the best treatment plan to
compliment your facial structure, ethnicity and provide natural looking
results.  When choosing a surgeon, make
sure to look at their before and after pictures to determine if they have a
similar aesthetic approach to the results you are hoping to achieve.  Best of luck!

Naveen Somia, MBBS, PhD, FRACS · Answer

Alar Base reduction would make a difference, Normally it is combined with a tip rhinoplasty to achieve your goals.Structurally changing one area can influence the appearance of an adjacent area in the nose. This is something your Plastic Surgeon can advise youBest Wishes

I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

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Answer: I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

Answer: I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

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I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

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Answer: I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

Answer: I am looking to do an alar base reduction alone. Will this make a huge difference to the look of my nose? (Photo)

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