When it comes to enhancing the appearance of your face, reshaping the nose can work wonders. This might explain why rhinoplasty (nose job) is among the most popular procedures at our San Mateo, CA plastic surgery practice.
Many people think that a nose job can only correct the bridge of the nose, but in fact all parts of the nose can be addressed. This includes the nostrils. Let’s consider how a rhinoplasty can correct issues with nostrils that are too large, appear flared or widened, or are simply uneven or mismatched.
Problems with Wide or Large Nostrils
Wide or pronounced nostrils tend to be a common issue for patients who’d like to undergo rhinoplasty. The nostril size tends to be determined by genetics and a person’s ethnic background.
By performing a procedure known as an alarplasty (nasal base surgery), a plastic surgeon can reduce the size of the nostrils and improve the patient’s overall appearance in the process. Additional rhinoplasty techniques may also be considered.
Problems with Uneven/Asymmetrical Nostrils
Nostrils that are uneven or asymmetrical are another common issue that people have. Significant asymmetry of the nostrils can greatly impact appearance. Just like wide nostrils, these cosmetic issues can leave you feeling self-conscious around others.
It’s possible for these matters to be corrected thanks to a carefully performed rhinoplasty. For minor asymmetry, non-surgical treatments such as dermal fillers may be suggested, depending on the needs of the patient.
Nostril Problems from a Previous Rhinoplasty
We should note that for some patients, uneven nostrils may be the result of a previous rhinoplasty that did not yield ideal results. Poor post-op recovery or issues with the surgical procedure itself may have caused these problems. In such cases, a plastic surgeon can perform a revision rhinoplasty procedure to address nostril asymmetry.
Candidates for Nostril Reshaping Rhinoplasty
Good candidates for nostril reshaping are adults who have issues with the shape or size of their nostrils. These patients should be in good overall health and not suffer from medical conditions that would make a nasal surgery a risk to wellness. It’s important that patients understand the pros and cons of the surgical procedure and have realistic expectations about healing times and results.
The Surgical Procedure
The procedure to correct large or uneven nostrils can vary from patient to patient. The goal of the alarplasty will be to achieve nostril symmetry and a reduction of the nostril size. Ideally, the outer edges of the nostril and nose should complement the face. The relation of the outer edges of the nose to the inner corners of the eyes will be considered as well.
Cosmetic surgeons will carefully excise tissue around the nostrils, placing sutures as needed to make them narrower and to ensure a uniform shape. With revision procedures for previous rhinoplasty, it’s important for surgeons to consider existing scar tissue and how to work with and around it.
Recovery from Surgery
The recovery process from a nostril reshaping surgery will typically involve a week to two weeks off from work. Patients will need to be very gentle with their nose while it is healing. Blowing one’s nose and even wearing glasses will not be recommended for a few weeks just to ensure optimal cosmetic results.
The Results of Nostril Reshaping Surgery
Once patients have fully healed, they will notice a significant improvement in the size, shape, and symmetry of their nostrils. While the surgery is subtle, it can have a major impact on the overall appearance of your face. Our patients routinely report improved self-confidence following the surgery.
Learn More about Rhinoplasty
For more information about rhinoplasty to reshape nostrils and how we can help you look your best, be sure to contact an experienced cosmetic plastic surgeon. We can discuss these matters in greater detail during the consultation process.
