How to "reverse" an African American excessive alarplasty in a revision?

Question

After my rhinoplasty, I am unhappy with my overdone alarplasty results and would like my revision surgery to restore some of my original features, I know it won't be identical but as close as possible. Can my alar base/nostrils be reincisioned and repositioned? And my tip be lowered a bit? No rib/ear cartilage/implants were used. It is better to get this "reversal" or wait a year?

Stephen J. Pincus, MD · Answer

Yes, I hear from many patients that the results of their alarplasty look unnatural and that they don't recognize themselves anymore. Alarplasties can be reversed to some degree. I talk about this on my website. Depending on whether alar wall with or without nasal floor was excised determines what approach is best. In many cases, a composite (skin + cartilage) ear graft is necessary. On the other hand, it is relatively easy to decrease tip projection.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

You should wait a minimum of one year to allow the healing to be complete. This will decrease the likelihood of severe scarring. Reversal of Alarplasty is challenging and comes at the price of scarring. You should think it over before proceeding. 
Regards
Dr. J

How to "reverse" an African American excessive alarplasty in a revision?

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