Will a Rhinoplasty Help Make my Nostrils Smaller?

Question

I want a smaller nose but even more I want smaller nostrils. I haven't really seen people get a nostril reduction is this possible? I absolutely hate my nostrils.

Ali Sajjadian, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,

	 

	The flare, show and size of the nostrils is often addressed through rhinoplasties.

	That said, only board certified surgeons of extensive experience with delicate rhinoplasties are the most qualified to provide commendable results.

	Being a triple board certified, I have performed multiple surgeries where addressing the nostrils was at the core of the procedures.

	However, every patient is different and every case is treated differently and should be approached in a custom manner as modifying the nostrils will have a noticeable impact over the nose and the face ultimately.

	I hope this helps.

	Thank you for your inquiry.

	The best of luck to you.

	Dr. Sajjadian

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The nostrils can be made smaller through an alarplasty procedure. A small incision is made at the base of the nostrils and a small amount of skin is removed from the nostril sill and the nostrils are narrowed. This can be performed as a stand alone procedure known as an alarplasty or it can also be performed at the same time as a full rhinoplasty.

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

An alar base reduction can reduce the size of the nostrils. I would recommend a consultation with a board certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon. During a consultation, computer morphing software may be used to help get an idea of how your nose may appear following surgery. Once your image is morphed, you and your surgeon may discuss what procedures may benefit you most, and develop a plan for your surgery. Thanks, and best of luck!

Steven J. Pearlman, MD, FACS · Answer

Alarplasty can address two different nostril shapes: it can reduce width and/or excess flare of the nostrils. This is achieved by removing a small wedge of skin from the side or floor of the nostril. The incisions are usually barely visible if at all.

Joseph Shvidler, MD · Answer

The nostrils may appear big for several reasons. They may be oblong shaped or flare widely. The dividividing wall between nostrils(columella) may also be wide slim or hanging too low, which can give a perception of an abnormal sized nostril. The sidewall of the nose also contributes to the shape. Also, the sill, or the base of the nostril can contribute to nostril size and shape as well. An experienced rhinoplasty surgeon will be able to evaluate all of the areas and come up with a plan to create an appropriate size nostril keeping in mind that there are limitations due to anatomy and potential for impairing breathing function.

Sam Naficy, MD, FACS · Answer

It is possible to reduce nostril size, nostril show, and nostril flare with rhinoplasty.  The link below shows an example

M. Vincent Makhlouf, MD, FACS · Answer

there are a multitude of procedures that can be done on the nostrils: to reduce the width, to reduce the size of the opening, to reduce the thickness of the wall to correct the shape as the tip is corrected etc. a good surgeon can evaluate what you need and offer options.

Tal T. Roudner, MD, FACS · Answer

The size of the nostrils as well as their with and "flaring" is possible while performing a rhinoplasty procedure. The term wire reduction is often used to describe this part of the rhinoplasty procedure.

	 

	Good luck!

Louis W. Apostolakis, MD · Answer

Nostril size reduction is a not uncommon part of many rhinoplasties I perform. An incision on the "sill" of the nostril extending into the crease along the side of the nostril is required. It can be done different ways to reduce the width of the base of the nose, the flare of the nostrils, or both. The amount of reduction possible is dependent on the way your nostril is shaped, especially along the "sill" section. To understand what the "sill" of the nose is, tip your head back and think of the opening of your nostril as a window, the sill of the nostril would be the same part that you would call the sill of a window.

Jarrod Little, MD · Answer

Reducing the size of the nostrils can be performed at the same time as a traditional rhinoplasty. The most common method of performing this is called "alar base reduction". The technique can reduce the nostril size and create more definition at the junction of the nose to cheek. As always, it is important to consult with a Plastic Surgeon who is experienced in Rhinoplasty.

Will a Rhinoplasty Help Make my Nostrils Smaller?

Answers (16)

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