Alar Base Resection - Alarplasty - Nostril Reduction

Nose Tip Reduction -Alarplasty Operation

The shape of the nostrils and nose wings are important for an aesthetic nose appearance. The ratio between the other parts of the nose and the nose wings and the tip of the nose should be aesthetically ideal. If the nostrils are larger than the ideal, the nostril reduction surgery is introduced. This process can be performed in the nose aesthetic surgery performed to change the whole nose shape, as well as surgery to reduce the nostrils only.

Alar base resection

It will be useful to discuss with your doctor about how to get into the nose area. Occasionally, patients come with a photograph and demand that the appearance of the same stop hole be given to their noses by nostril reduction. However, each face shape is different, and not every nose appearance can have the same beautiful appearance as a whole. However, the current nose appearance may not be ideal for the desired nostril appearance or smallness. With all this in mind, your decision to consider the most appropriate nostril appearance for your face, taking into consideration your doctor's recommendations, will make you more satisfied with the result.

Who Can Have Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Anyone who complains about the large nostrils can have a nostril reduction surgery. People who have a nose in which the nose wings spread to the face or those who are not satisfied with the shape given to the nostrils due to a previous nose aesthetic can also benefit from this surgery. However, to be nostril reduction surgery must be over 18 years old. However, surgery and pregnancy during the breastfeeding period is uncomfortable to undergo this process after the application for surgery will be useful. Finally, in order to benefit from this surgery, one should not have any health problem that prevents the operation.

How to Perform Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Local or general anesthesia can be applied in nasal end surgery. Your doctor should decide which anesthesia method to use. Drugs used in anesthesia prevent you from feeling any pain, pain or pain during the nostril reduction surgery. Immediately after the effect of anesthesia, the excess tissue is removed by applying an incision. After the operation, the incision area is carefully selected so that no visible scar remains. After removal of excess tissue, suture is performed and surgery is completed.

One of the most curious elements is whether there is a need for suturing after the nostril reduction operation. In this surgery, self-melting sutures are used in the body. Therefore, there is no need to remove sutures after surgery. However, this does not mean that you will not go to control after surgery. Even if you do not want to have the sutures removed, you will need to go to your doctor for a review of the healing status of the tissues.

The ideal reduction of the nostrils is of great importance. Because the nostrils smaller than the ideal, aesthetically unpleasant appearance, as well as may cause you to experience various breathing problems. For this reason, it is decided by the examination performed before the nostril reduction operation to determine the proportion of the nostril reduction and then surgery planning is started.

Alar base resection techniques

Alar base resection consists of the removal of fibroadipose tissue and skin in the lower and posterior parts of the nostrils. Although basically two separate incisions can be made, as follows; there are techniques that consist of combinations of these techniques.

In the image above, we performed alar base resection under local anesthesia on the patient who had previously had a rhinoplasty operation and who applied to our clinic because the left nostril was wider and larger than the right nostril. As seen in the middle photo, the red marked area has been excised. Since the base of the left nostril was wider, more internal incisions were made (without turning to the outside of the wing, as indicated) and the incision area was sutured with self-dissolving suture materials and the procedure was completed. Total processing time was around 5 minutes. In the rightmost image showing the post-procedure, it can be seen that the shape of both nostrils has become very close to each other.

Alar base resection, also known as alarplasty or alar base reduction, is a surgical procedure performed to modify the width or shape of the nostrils. It is commonly used to address wide or flared nostrils and to achieve facial harmony and balance in individuals seeking aesthetic improvements to the nose. Several techniques can be employed to perform alar base resection, and the choice of technique depends on the patient's specific needs and desired outcomes.

During alarplasty, the surgeon carefully removes a portion of tissue from the base of the nostrils, modifying the width and contour to achieve the desired outcome. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Here are some of the commonly used alar base resection techniques:

External Alar Wedge Resection: This technique involves making incisions along the outer rim of the nostrils, following the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek. A small wedge of tissue is then removed from each nostril, and the remaining tissue is meticulously sutured back together. External alar wedge resection allows for precise control and adjustment of the nostril width while minimizing visible scarring.

Weir Excision: The Weir excision technique is suitable for patients who require minimal reduction of nostril width. It involves removing a small triangular-shaped segment of tissue from the nostril's base while preserving the natural curve of the alar rim. This technique is less invasive and typically results in a discreet scar that is well-hidden within the nostril crease.

Alar Base Excision: Alar base excision is a technique used for patients who require more significant reduction in nostril width. This method involves creating an incision within the nostril's base, following the curve of the nostril crease. A crescent-shaped segment of tissue is then removed, and the remaining tissues are meticulously reapproximated and sutured together. The resulting scar is hidden within the natural contours of the nostril.

Alar Cinching: Alar cinching is a technique used to reduce excessive flaring of the nostrils. It involves creating internal incisions at the base of the nostrils and suturing the internal tissues together. This technique helps tighten and narrow the nasal base, reducing the appearance of flared nostrils.

During an alar base resection procedure, the surgeon carefully considers the patient's unique nasal anatomy, aesthetic goals, and desired changes to determine the most appropriate technique. The goal is to achieve symmetrical and proportionate nostrils that enhance the overall facial appearance while maintaining a natural-looking result.

It is important to note that alar base resection is a surgical procedure that should be performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon or otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist). Prior to the procedure, a thorough consultation will take place to discuss the patient's goals, assess their candidacy for surgery, and outline the potential risks and benefits associated with the chosen technique.

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, including the possibility of scarring, asymmetry, changes in sensation, and complications associated with anesthesia. It is crucial to follow the post-operative care instructions provided by the surgeon and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and optimal results.

Overall, alar base resection techniques offer effective solutions for individuals seeking to refine the width or shape of their nostrils. By working closely with a skilled surgeon, patients can achieve desired improvements and enhance facial harmony through this procedure.

Revision Alarplasty

The patient seen in the photo on the side had previously undergone surgery at a different clinic 3 times and complained of asymmetry in the nostrils, especially after the lip lifting procedure. We planned to have the patient remove more tissue from the right nostril and remove more tissue from the left. Alar base resection sites were marked with a skin marker pen. After the procedure, it was seen that the nostrils became almost the same shape as each other. Self-absorbable suture materials were used in the patient. After the procedure, it was recommended to use nostril retaniner to ensure symmetrical healing in the nostrils.  Scar tissues due to previous incision areas are seen on the patient's columella and at the junction of the upper lip and columella.

Risks of Nostril Reduction Surgery

Priorities should be noted that each surgical operation carries a risk. There is no risk-free surgery. For this reason, nostril reduction surgery also carries various risks in itself. The risks such as infection and bleeding can be minimized thanks to new surgical techniques. In addition, the use of antibiotics prescribed by your doctor after surgery also reduces the risk of infection. Observing the warnings and recommendations made by your doctor will reduce the risk of complications after nostril reduction surgery.

Understanding Possible Complications in Nostril Reduction

Alar base resection, commonly known as alarplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure aimed at refining the appearance of the nostrils. While this surgery can provide transformative results, it's crucial for individuals considering alarplasty to be aware of potential complications. In this article, we'll explore these complications to help you make an informed decision about nostril reduction.

Possible Complications of Alar Base Resection

Scarring: Although efforts are made to minimize scarring, some individuals may experience visible scars at the base of the nostrils. Skilled surgeons use precise techniques to reduce scarring, but individual healing varies.

Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry is challenging, and there is a risk of asymmetry post-surgery. Surgeons work meticulously to create balance, but subtle differences may occur, necessitating additional procedures.

Nasal Obstruction: In rare cases, alarplasty may lead to nasal obstruction, affecting airflow. Surgeons carefully assess the nasal anatomy to minimize the risk, but it's essential for patients to report any breathing difficulties.

Prolonged Swelling: Swelling and bruising are common after alarplasty, but in some cases, individuals may experience prolonged swelling. This can impact the assessment of final results and may require time and patience.

Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. Adhering to post-operative care instructions, including keeping the incision sites clean, is crucial to minimize this risk.

Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Outcome: While alarplasty aims to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the nose, individual perceptions of beauty vary. There is a chance that the outcome may not meet the patient's expectations, emphasizing the importance of realistic goals and thorough communication with the surgeon.

Reducing Risks and Ensuring a Positive Outcome

Choose a Skilled Surgeon: Select a surgeon with experience in alarplasty. Review their portfolio and patient testimonials to ensure their expertise aligns with your expectations.

Follow Pre- and Post-Operative Instructions: Adhering to the surgeon's guidelines before and after surgery is crucial. This includes avoiding certain medications, following a healthy lifestyle, and attending post-operative appointments.

Communicate Openly: Clearly communicate your goals and concerns with your surgeon during the consultation. Understanding realistic expectations is vital to achieving a satisfactory outcome.

Thorough Evaluation: A comprehensive pre-operative assessment by the surgeon helps identify potential risks and allows for tailored surgical planning, minimizing complications.

While alarplasty can offer remarkable results in nostril reduction, it's essential to recognize the potential complications associated with the procedure. Choosing a skilled surgeon, understanding the risks, and maintaining open communication throughout the process are key steps in mitigating these challenges. By being well-informed, individuals can approach alar base resection with confidence, knowing that careful consideration and expert guidance contribute to a positive surgical experience.

Nose tip plasty animation

Alar Base Resection (Alarplasty) Indications

Alar base resection, commonly referred to as alarplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to address the size and shape of the nostrils. This cosmetic surgery has gained popularity for its ability to enhance facial harmony and balance. In this article, we will explore the indications for alar base resection and shed light on the nostril reduction process.

Understanding Alar Base Resection

Alarplasty is a surgical technique that focuses on reshaping the base of the nose, specifically addressing the width and flare of the nostrils. It is often sought by individuals who are dissatisfied with the appearance of wide or flared nostrils, seeking a more refined and proportional nose.

Indications for Nostril Reduction

Wide Nostrils: Alar base resection is particularly effective for individuals with naturally wide or flared nostrils. This procedure can narrow the nostrils to achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Asymmetry: Some individuals may experience nostril asymmetry, where one nostril appears larger or wider than the other. Alarplasty can correct this imbalance, creating a more symmetrical and harmonious look. After excessive tissue resections, problems such as asymmetry and serious narrowing of the nostrils may occur.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty: Alar base resection is often a component of ethnic rhinoplasty procedures, where individuals of diverse ethnic backgrounds seek to enhance their nasal features while preserving their cultural identity.

Improved Facial Proportion: Nostril reduction through alarplasty can contribute to improved facial proportion by bringing the nose into better alignment with other facial features. This can enhance overall facial harmony and balance.

Breathing Difficulties: In some cases, alarplasty may be performed not only for cosmetic reasons but also to address functional issues. It can be combined with other nasal procedures to improve airflow and alleviate breathing difficulties.

Healing Process after Nostril Reduction

On the day of surgery, mild nausea, vomiting or headache may occur due to anesthesia. This is temporary and your complaints will end with the expulsion of anesthetic medication prior to nostril reduction. It should be noted that this period is not long. Especially when local anesthesia is applied, these complaints may be much less severe.

One of the aesthetic surgeries that do not require clinical rest is the reduction of the nostril. You may be discharged on the same day after surgery. However, you may need to rest at home for a few days. You can also go back to working life when you feel good. The recovery process after surgery does not force patients too much. We can say that there is a comfortable healing process. There may be a slight pain, but this pain can be controlled by the use of medications prescribed by the doctor.

Description of the 3 images above (top to bottom):

1st photo: patient who had previously undergone a 3rd revision rhinoplasty and had asymmetrical nostrils. The base of the right nostril appears wider than the left.

2nd photo: photo taken immediately after the right alar base resection. Due to the local anesthetic injection, the side of the right nostril adjacent to the alar base incision is swollen, and therefore the right nostril appears smaller than the left.

3rd photo: 1 week after the alar base resection, the nostrils are seen to be closer to each other in shape and size, and more symmetrical.

You cannot see the result immediately in plastic surgery. There may be swelling, bruising and edema in the nose area after surgery. This is very normal and prevents you from seeing the operation result clearly. So after the removal of the splints and bands after the nostril reduction surgery, you will see a very different image than you expect from the nose image. You will have to wait about 6 weeks to see the shape of the nose area more clearly.

After 3 months after surgery, the stiffness of the tip of the nose will begin to soften. With softening, a thinning begins to occur and the area of ​​the nostrils gradually begins to take the shape gained by nostril reduction surgery. At the end of this period, the ratio of nose to mouth and eye returns to normal.

It may take up to 12 months for the nose to take its full shape. This is because in most of the cosmetic surgeries performed in the face area, including nostril reduction, this period ranges from 6 months to 12 months. Of course, you have to keep in mind that this period varies from patient to patient. Tissue healing rate is not the same in all patients. Therefore, it may take less than 12 months for the nose to take its true shape after the nostril reduction operation.

Alar Base Resection -Alarplasty Cost

Alar base resection fee, the procedure can be easily performed under office conditions and local anesthesia. Since it does not require a special device or hospital operating room, the procedure fee is usually not high. When performed under local anesthesia in the office, the total procedure fee is around 800-1200 USD. It can be performed by bringing a sterile drape, sterile suture kit and other surgical procedures to the office. However, for patients who want the procedure to be performed in hospital conditions, the procedure fee can go up to 2000-2500 USD.

Considerations After Nose Hole Reduction Surgery

As you can imagine, after the nostril reduction surgery, the nose should not be hit. The impact may cause distortion of the tip of the nose, even at a slight level, and in this case, performing the second surgery may be necessary. Hygiene is one of the most important factors. The suture lines must be kept clean after surgery.

Patients often need to touch the nasal area after nostril reduction. You should avoid this behavior. Hygienically, touching the nose frequently may cause infection, especially when the tissues are not fully recovered after surgery. You should not enter the sauna, Turkish bath, pool or sea during the period specified by your doctor. In addition, the first week to avoid movements that force your body will be useful.

Women patients also wonder when they can start to make up. Without healing the tissues applied to the incision, the nose area should not come into contact with cosmetic products. Since the healing time will vary from person to person, the question of when to make up after nostril reduction surgery should be answered by your doctor. After surgery, your doctor will check the level of healing in the tissues. After this check, you can get the opinion of your doctor. Make-up, creams and similar products should not be used without the approval of the physician.

Patient care after alar base resection

After undergoing alar base resection, it is important to follow specific care instructions to promote proper healing and achieve optimal results. Here are some general guidelines for patient care after alar base resection:

Follow Post-Operative Instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions that are specific to your case. It is crucial to follow these instructions carefully and ask any questions you may have. This may include guidance on wound care, medication usage, activity restrictions, and follow-up appointments.

Managing Discomfort: It is normal to experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising after the surgery. Your surgeon may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any pain or discomfort. Applying cold compresses or ice packs to the treated area for short periods can help reduce swelling and ease discomfort. Be sure to follow your surgeon's instructions regarding the use of cold compresses.

Wound Care: Proper wound care is essential to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to clean and care for the incision sites. This may include gentle cleansing with a mild soap or saline solution, followed by the application of any prescribed ointments or dressings. It is important to avoid picking or scratching the incision sites to prevent complications.

Protecting Incisions: It is important to protect the incisions and avoid any activities that may disrupt the healing process. Your surgeon may recommend avoiding strenuous physical activities, such as exercise or heavy lifting, for a specific period. You should also be cautious while washing your face, avoiding excessive pressure or rubbing on the incision sites. Additionally, it is crucial to keep the incisions out of direct sunlight and use sunblock to prevent hyperpigmentation or scarring.

Managing Swelling : Swelling ise common after alar base resection. To reduce swelling, keep your head elevated while resting or sleeping for the first few days

When Can You Return to Your Country After Alar Base Resection - Alarplasty?

After alar base resection, you can return on the same day, but when the suture materials used are self-dissolving sutures, it may be appropriate to apply local antibiotic creams to the incision site and return to your country immediately after the procedure. In other words, since the sutures will dissolve on their own, you do not need to see another doctor even if you return to your country immediately. However, when the incision site is stitched with permanent suture materials, you may need to see a doctor after a week or 10 days to have these sutures removed. If you do not want to wait a week after an alar base resection in Istanbul, you may need to go to a clinic there to have the sutures removed when you return.

Is It Necessary to Use Scar Gel After Alar Base Resection - Alarplasty?

After the procedure, applying epithelializing creams and antibiotic skin ointments to the incision site for 3-4 weeks is usually sufficient. However, if there is a significant color change or redness in the wound site after 1 month,various scar gels can be applied for 2-3 months (Scarex, scarfade, contractubex ...). Especially in dark-skinned patients, the risk of color change and scar development in the incision site may be high.

Do Not Smoke After Alar Base Resection!

In patients who smoke, nicotine can directly cause a decrease in vascular diameter and circulation, carbon monoxide can decrease tissue nutrition, and burn products can increase the risk of infection at the local wound site. In patients who smoke, dark color changes can occur at the site of a serious incision. So when can you smoke? It is ideal to wait at least 2 months after Alarplasty. It may be better for you if you wait longer.

On this website, the link group where you can find previously written and published articles about alar base resection >> https://www.ent-istanbul.com/search?q=alar+base+resection

Source link >> Things I wish I had been taught about rhinoplasty - NCBI

Murat Enoz, MD, Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgeon - ENT Doctor in Istanbul

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