Does nostril narrowing/alar base reduction always look unnatural? (Photo)

Question

I have a somewhat wide tip and my nose flares out a lot when I smile(far beyond beginning of my eyes, see below). However, looking at rhino results of people with alarplasty, they almost exclusively look "off"; it's instantly visible that something was done, mostly because the nostrils always end up being too triangular. Is this always the case? Also, how long until the scare become invisible to outsiders?

John Michael Thomassen, MD · Answer

From the photo it does not seem you would need this procedure.  Nonetheless, it can look very natural and the scar can be almost imperceptible if done properly.  Best wishes, Dr. T.

Manish H. Shah, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello finallysophia,Thanks for your question.Alarplasty can be done in many ways and to varying degrees.  This is what makes some outcomes look natural and others look unnatural.A good consultation with photos and simulations to get a realistic look at possible outcomes is always recommended.Scars will fade over the course of 6-12 months in most patients.  They can easily be covered with makeup until that time.I hope this helps.Good luck,Dr. Shah

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.The harmony between facial parts makes us instinctively recognize the beauty... without knowing it, without defining it, just a perception that surprises and captivates us.In this regard, I suggest perform a Closed Rhinoplasty (without visible scars) to treat the tip, base and nasal bridge.With this procedure you get a delicate nose, better harmonize with your other facial features.Kind regard,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol.-

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Based on your
photograph, you may not need alarplasty.  I generally reserve alarplasty for patients with much wider alar bases and the scars can be disguised very well, if good technique is employed.  There are other techniques for your nose which could have a nice overall look.  You may benefit from a tip refining rhinoplasty. Your surgeon can
accomplish this by trimming, suturing, and reshaping the cartilage in your
lower nose. Cartilage grafts may also be used to help improve tip refinement.
The most important aspect is
to find a surgeon you are comfortable with. With good surgical technique, you
could have an outstanding result. I recommend that you seek consultation with a
qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your questions. An experienced surgeon can prevent your scars to be visible to outsiders and can provide you with a natural look. For that reason, I suggest you consult with a board certified facial plastic surgeon.Best wishes,

Does nostril narrowing/alar base reduction always look unnatural? (Photo)

Answers (5)