Why are my nostrils notched and triangular? What causes an alar retraction?

Alar notching can be caused by over resection of mucosa. It can also be caused by suture placement along the rim in the apex of the nostril. I have noticed the latter occurring in a patient of my own

Hello! Thank you for your question. Unfortunately it is not possible to make a proper evaluation without any photo of your nose. If you can provide photos from front of your face, from the side of your face and 1 meter away I would be able to make a proper evaluation. It would be more convenient to decide with face-to-face consultation. Best Regards!

Thank you for your question.
During rhinoplasty if one has a prominent and bulbous nasal tip, surgeon may perform cephalic reduction of the lower lateral cartilages. If so, wound retraction as part of healing process may cause notching appearance of alar rims. Of course, without the benefit of seeing your operative notes and seeing your images one cannot tell if this was the case for you.
Best wishes

What causes Alar notching after nasal tip surgery? surgery on the nasal tip involves incisions through the lining mucosa and cartilage of the nasal tip. This heals with the formation of scar tissue. Scar issues sometimes contracts and that contraction can cause an upward tension on the rim of the nostril which result in the notched appearance you are referring to.