If you’re looking into rhinoplasty surgery (surgery for the nose), you should know that there are different types of procedures suited to different patients. One type is known as alarplasty, which specifically targets the lower base or nostrils of the nose.
This procedure can be performed independently or along with a traditional rhinoplasty. This means if you have concerns about the width or shape of your nostrils, you might like to learn more from a professional who can assess your unique facial anatomy and cosmetic desires. If this sounds like you, speak to an experienced professional at Aesthetic Edge in Sydney.
What is alarplasty surgery?
Let’s talk about what the surgery involves. Alarplasty surgery, sometimes known as alar base reduction, is a cosmetic surgery performed on the nose. It particularly targets the base of the nose, or the nostrils, generally aiming to make the nostrils smaller.
The surgery itself can be done with a local anaesthetic and should take less than one hour to complete. The surgeon makes incisions at the lower border of the nose, at the crease between the cheek and nostril. He then uses an incision technique to remove a wedge-shaped area of tissue at the alar base. Finally, the incision is closed with sutures, and the patient begins recovery.
What does alarplasty achieve?
Noses come in all different shapes, sizes, and proportions. Depending on a person’s unique anatomy and perceptions about their nose shape, some people desire to make their nostrils smaller. Reducing the size of the nostrils typically reduces the lower width of the nose, which may be desirable for some people.
By reducing the width of the nostrils, patients may desire to alter their nasal:
- Symmetry
- Shape
- Proportion
- Broadness
However, remember that all patients, surgeons, and surgeries are different. This means we can’t guarantee the results, but we encourage patients to make informed decisions for their own health and well-being.
Who is suitable?
Before you go ahead with alarplasty surgery, it’s helpful to know if you’ll be a good candidate. The only way to confirm whether you’re suitable for surgery is by having a private consultation with a plastic surgeon. However, the following are some general things to keep in mind.
Good candidates for alarplasty surgery should be physically healthy without severe health risks. They typically:
- Have a positive and healthy mindset
- Are concerned about the appearance of their nostrils
- Have realistic expectations about what surgery can do
- Are willing to follow all aftercare instructions
- Are prepared mentally, physically, and financially
- Understand the risks of undergoing a surgical procedure
Being well-prepared for surgery includes taking care of your mental and physical health. Healthy lifestyle habits, like staying fit, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking, will help prepare your body for recovery. Also, you should prepare yourself mentally, thinking about the possible risks as well as asking yourself what outcomes you desire to achieve. Since the procedure aims to reduce the width of the nostrils, suitable patients usually desire a narrower and more moderate alar base size.
What should I know about risks and recovery?
Although this surgery removes a small area of tissue, this is still a significant decision that carries risks. The risks can include problems such as bleeding, infection, poor healing, asymmetry, poor results, and other possible complications.
Aftercare is a vital part of recovery after your procedure. You’ll need to be clear on how you need to care for your incisions, how much time to take off work, and when you can return to your normal activities. You’ll also receive other instructions on things to avoid, such as smoking, alcohol, strenuous tasks, and sun exposure. Smoking can have poor effects on the immune system and reduces white blood cell migration to your healing wound. This means it can significantly delay the healing process and leave you more prone to complications.
Also, if you are taking certain medications, your surgeon may advise you to stop these for a period of time. Avoid medications such as aspirin, which thins your blood. You can discuss the healing process more during an initial consultation with your surgeon.
Choose Aesthetic Edge Clinic for alarplasty surgery in Sydney
If you have questions about alarplasty surgery or wish to learn more, you could benefit from a private consult with a plastic surgeon. This initial consultation can help clear up any uncertainties you may have and help you make a decision based on knowledge about both the risks and benefits.
Our team at Aesthetic Edge, understand that surgery is a significant and personal decision. We aim to help our patients feel fully informed about their options, providing support from the beginning to the end of the surgical process. Contact our team in Sydney to learn more about alarplasty or alar base reduction.
