Alar plasty refers to cosmetic plastic surgery that changes the shape and appearance of the nostrils. The procedure can either narrow the nostrils or increase them depending on the goal. It can be done for both cosmetic and functional reasons. This surgery can make the nose look smaller, which will improve the patient's appearance.
Procedure
Alar plasty involves the removal of small amounts of tissue from the base and sides of the nose. After measuring the amount of skin to be removed, the surgeon stitches the remaining skin together. This procedure leaves a narrower nose and more pleasing aesthetics. The procedure can take between 45 minutes and an hour.
Recovery time
You can expect pain and swelling to last several days after alar plasty. After this, you can resume most of your daily activities and get back to your routine. 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
Following an alar plasty procedure, there are several factors that can 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 stitches to reinforce the altered alar base. The wound is then closed with a bandage. 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
Costs of alarplasty can vary widely depending on the surgeon, the area and the cost of the procedure. Fees range anywhere from $3,000 to $8,500, and these prices typically cover the surgeon's fee, anesthesia, and facility fees. These fees also include pre- and post-operative visits and blood work. 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. It can also improve the symmetry or width of the nostrils.
Sill excision
To correct sill flare and sill width problems, alar plasty can be done for sill exclusion. 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
A Weir excision is a surgical procedure to narrow the nostrils after alar plasty. This is accomplished by making an incision at the nostril's inner side, just below your natural lip crease. This incision is then wrapped around the nostrils and across the floor. The wound is then closed with sutures. The patient will be given pain medication after surgery and instructions to prevent infection. For several days, the wound will need to remain bandaged.