Can I Make my Nostrils Smaller Without Surgery?

The cartilage of the nose has some rigidity and some memory. Immediately post-tip rhinoplasty, the nostrils sometimes change shape. It is often temporary and it usually settles down. One month post tip-rhinoplasty is very very early to assess any results.

Should the nostrils still be wide 6-12 months post-operatively, you might want to consider a relatively minor procedure where a small wedge of tissue in each nostril sill (internally) is removed and the alar (nostril) base is brought slightly more medially (towards each other), reducing slightly the circumference of each nostril. This is a simple procedure often performed under local anesthesia alone, with very minimal discomfort and minimal down-time. I rarely recommend an external approach to nostril reduction as the scars are often noticeable.

It’s not unusual for the nostrils to appear large following rhinoplasty surgery.  This is especially true when extensive work has been performed upon the nasal bridge.
            Unfortunately, there are no non-surgical methods for the correction of this problem.  In many patients this problem becomes less noticeable as nasal tip swelling resolves.  Resolution of swelling can potentially take up to a year to reach completion.  For this reason, it’s important to wait for at least one year before proceeding with revisional surgery.

            When patients are dissatisfied with their nostril size after the resolution of swelling, secondary surgery is usually necessary.  In most cases, a procedure known as an alarplasty is performed.  This procedure decreases the size of the nostril by resecting tissue along the alar base where the nose joins the cheek.

            If you’re concerned about the size of your nostrils it’s important to consult a board certified plastic surgeon.  This surgeon should be able to formulate a treatment plan that addresses your anatomic findings and achieves your aesthetic goals.    

Hi Lala,

You can try throwing them in the washing machine and then the dryer, no that only works with some jeans.  Unfortunately it takes surgery to make the nostrils smaller.  Fortunately, you are only one month post rhinoplasty and the nasal tip is the last part of your nose where swelling goes away.  You have a gorgeous nose with beautiful skin.  Be patient.  Good luck and be well.

Dr. P