Alar plasty is a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure that alters the shape of the nostrils. Depending on the objectives of the procedure, the nostrils can be either narrowed or enlarged. The surgery can be performed both for cosmetic reasons and for functional purposes. The surgery can often make the nose appear narrower, improving the patient’s appearance.
Procedure
Alar-plasty involves the removal a little bit of tissue from around the base. 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
After an alarplasty procedure, you may feel some discomfort and swelling for several days. You can return to your normal routine and most of your usual activities once you have recovered from alar plasty. 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
There are a few factors that will affect the scars following an alar plasty procedure. This surgery is quick and does not require any local anaesthesia. The surgeon will then make an incision at the alar base to create the smaller nose. The surgeon will then use stitches to reinforce the altered alar base. The wound is then bandaged. The patient might be prescribed pain medication and instructed to keep it from getting infected. The patient will be required to wear the bandage for a few more days following the procedure.
Cost
Alar plasty costs vary depending on where it is done and who the surgeon is. These fees can range from $3,000 up to $8,500. They typically include the surgeon's charge, anesthesia, facility fees, and any other costs. They also cover pre-, post- and after-operative appointments as well as blood work. These costs will vary depending upon the patient’s medical history and individual needs.
Optimal nostrils
Alarplasty is used to restore optimal nostril shape. The ala is repositioned in the best position. This procedure corrects problems such as nasal obstruction, nostril asymmetry, and caudal end deformity. This procedure can also improve the symmetry of the nostrils and their width.
Sill excision
Alar plasty is a procedure that can be used to extinguish sill flare. A sill with a horizontal line and larger nostrils is the ideal width. The procedure may also be combined with the reduction of the base of the alar wedge.
Weir excision
After alar surgery, Weir excision allows for the narrowing of the nostrils. This is done by incisions made on the nostril's inside, just below where the natural lip crease is. The incision wraps around the nostril's inside and along the nostril floor. The wounds are then closed with stitches. After surgery, pain medication is administered to the patient and instructions are given on how to prevent infection. For several days, the wound will need to remain bandaged.