Closed or open procedure for wide nostrils? (Photo)

Question

My nose is wide, as in the base/ nostrils. The tip of my nose is wider too. (I attached a photo .. I just cropped the first one I saw in my iPhoto so it isn't great, sorry.) I haven't consulted with a doctor in person but am trying to research on my own - could I get a closed surgery? I want smaller nostrils and a smaller tip, but don't want to look unnatural. (Tips for how to pick a doctor would be great, too. When I research rhinoplasty dr's most seem to show bridge work rather than nostrils.)

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

Please do post a complete set of pics without any glasses on top of nose.Nostril reduction involves visible scars.

Philip S. Schoenfeld, MD, FACS · Answer

I would agree with the areas of your nose that you would like addressed.  The majority of nostril narrowing that is performed, and particularly in your case where your nostril inserts widely on the nasal sill, you will need an incision that is placed precisely just above the nostril crease.  An experienced surgeon will be able to create a nostril width that you are happy with and will be natural and symmetric.  The choice of a closed versus open rhinoplasty is in part related to the surgeons comfort level with which approach they feel that they can get the best result for you.  You will need a great deal of tip work to include creation of tip support and definition.  The approach that your surgeon chooses to perform your rhinoplasty has nothing to do with whether or not your nose will look natural or unnatural.  The skill of the surgeon and your desired surgical result will dictate that,  so spend some time communicating with your rhinoplasty surgeon about what you would like.

Samir Undavia, MD · Answer

The nasal tip can be addressed with a closed approach, or through a tiny incision between the skin of the nostrils. But if you are looking to narrow the nostrils width and reduce their flare, incisions around the nostrils and within the nostrils are needed.  These alar base incisions heal well and can produce significant results.

Sean R. Weiss, MD, FACS · Answer

It appears that your nose is wide at the base and lacks definition at the tip.  It is not shown in the photo, but you may also have a low bridge as well.  This can be addressed with a closed or open approach.  your tip and nostrils could be narrowed, and you may need to have the bridge raised to some degree to help with balance and proportions.  You should consult with a rhinoplasty specialist that has experience with ethnic rhinoplasty to improve your look and maintain your ethnicity.

Shervin Naderi, MD, FACS · Answer

HiGreat question and one that comes up all the time.  Open or closed rhinoplasty applies to the tip and bridge but nostrils are completely a different story and not related to open or closed.  Whether the tip work or the bridge work is done open or closed, the alarplasty or alar reduction to narrow the nostrils is done with incisions on the nostril skin in the same way.  There are 3 main ways of doing nostril reduction but they all involve cutting out extra skin with incisions and scars that may be somewhat visible depending on how you heal.  Now as far as your tip, the surgery can be done open or closed and one way is not better than the other.  What you need to do is find the best surgeon for the best nosejob.

Michael T. Somenek, MD · Answer

From your photo, it appears that you have nostrils that are too wide for your face in addition to having a nasal tip that lacks definition.  This is all something that can be addressed with a rhinoplasty.  I recommend scheduling a consultation with a rhinoplasty specialist that performs ethnic rhinoplasty so you can get a thorough evaluation including photos and computer imaging. This will help establish expectations and an understanding of what is a realistic result for your nose. Hope this helps and best of luck.

Sean Maguire, MD · Answer

It would be very helpful if you could submit better photos- without sunglasses and showing the full nose in multiple views. Also, a thorough exam is important for the surgeon to determine the best approach. An explanation of your specific cosmetic concerns and any functional problems related to breathing would also be helpful.The choice of technique- closed vs open- is mostly determined by the surgeon's experience and philosophy. One approach is not necessarily better but depending on your surgeon's experience he or she may have a preference.

Closed or open procedure for wide nostrils? (Photo)

Answers (7)

More Rhinoplasty Questions

What types of painkillers do you give patients after Rhinoplasty?

8 weeks post Rhinoplasty.Tip is undefined & big. Bridge seems wide. Will my nose become defined or is this final result? (photo)

Bump on bridge of nose scar tissue? How much will tip swelling still go down?

How long to TAPE for following Rhinoplasty?

Unhappy! 6 Months Post-Op Rhinoplasty. Side profile changed, pinched in tip. (photos)

How high is the risk of infection with Rhinoplasty?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS