Alar Resection
Alar Resection is recommended for individuals with large alae, where the outer edge of the alar exceeds the inner canthus. For most individuals, this approach is usually coupled with rhinoplasty to achieve the most natural outcome. In some cases where the nasal tip is already proper and nasal bridge is prominent, the individuals may only require Alar Resection. It is best to have the doctor assess and recommend the best approach for you.
The approach may differ slightly depending on what is causing the wide alar -- wide nostril, thick alar tissue, or both.
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Wide nostril: The doctor will perform cuts at both sides of the alar and remove the excess tissue to narrow down the nostril.
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Thick alar tissue: The cut will be applied to the nostril, and excess tissue around the alar removed.
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Jointed issue (wide nostril and thick alar tissue): The cut will be applied along the alar shape outline and nostril.
In general, performing Alar Resection or in conjunction with Close Rhinoplasty requires local anesthesia. For Open Rhinoplasty, the doctor will apply general anesthesia. An Alar Resection operation is relatively simple and not time-consuming, but it is not for everyone. For individuals whose alar and nostril shape are already natural-looking, the operation may not help improve the results and may lead to potential breathing problems.
Recommended for:
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Individuals wanting a narrower and thinner alar
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To correct asymmetrical nostrils
Operation details:
After applying anesthesia, the surgeon will cut open the skin around the alar, stitch and join both sides closer together to the desired width, and close the cut. The cut will be hidden inside the nose and between the alar groove.
Post-operational treatments:
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Clean the area daily, avoid contact with water.
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Suture removal after 10 days.
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Avoid nose picking or blowing, fully smile, yawning.
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Swelling will typically be less noticeable after 3 months.
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For the first 3 months, the alar will appear narrower, and will gradually widen for the next 6 months to the intended width.
Possible side-effects:
In some cases the nostrils may begin to be asymmetrical, which may require a followup corrective surgery.