Alar plasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that alters the shape of the nostrils. The procedure can either narrow the nostrils or increase them depending on the goal. The procedure can be performed for either cosmetic or functional reasons. The surgery can often make the nose appear narrower, improving the patient’s appearance.
Procedure
Alar plasty involves the removal of small amounts of tissue from the base and sides of the nose. The surgeon measures the amount of skin that is being removed and then stitches it together. This procedure leaves a narrower nose and more pleasing aesthetics. The surgery can last 45 minutes to an hour.
Time for recovery
You can expect pain and swelling to last several days after alar plasty. You will feel able to resume your normal activities after this time. However, some bruising may remain. Your case is unique so your recovery time may vary. However, in general you can expect to return to normal within four to six week.
Scars
After an alar plastic surgery, there are some factors that may affect scarring. It is performed quickly and requires either local anaesthesia (or sedation). The surgeon will make an incision on the alar bone and then carve the smaller nose. The surgeon will then use sutures in order to reinforce the new contour of the alar bone. The wound then gets bandaged. The patient might be prescribed pain medication and instructed to keep it from getting infected. He will be required to wear a bandage for a few days after the procedure.
Cost
Alar plasty costs vary depending on where it is done and who the surgeon is. Fees can vary from $3,000 to $8.500. These prices usually cover the surgeon's fees, anesthesia, as well as facility fees. These fees include blood work, pre-and post-operative appointments, and blood tests. These costs will be determined by the patient's medical history, and their particular needs.
Optimal nostrils
Alar surgery aims at restoring optimal nostril shape through the repositioning of the ala. This procedure addresses problems like nasal obstruction, caudal asymmetry, and caudal-end deformity. This procedure can also improve the symmetry of the nostrils and their width.
Sill excision
Alar plasty for sill removal can be performed to correct sill width issues and excessive alar flare. An ideal sill width has a horizontal axis, enlarged nostrils and an optimal sill width. The procedure may also be combined with the reduction of the base of the alar wedge.
Weir excision
After alar plasty, a Weir excision can be performed to reduce the size of the nostrils. This procedure is performed by making an incision on the inside of the nostril, just below the natural lip crease. The incision wraps around the nostril's inside and along the nostril floor. The wounds are then closed with stitches. The patient is then given pain medication and instructions on how to avoid infection. The wound should be covered for several days.