Alar plasty refers to cosmetic plastic surgery that changes the shape and appearance of the nostrils. Depending on the goals of the procedure, this procedure can narrow or increase the nostril width. The surgery can both be cosmetically done and used for functional purposes. In many cases, the surgery will reduce the size of the nose, which can improve the patient's appearance.
Procedure
Alar plasty involves removing a small amount of tissue from the base of the nose. The amount of skin removed is carefully measured and the surgeon then stitches together the remaining skin. The procedure results in a slightly narrower nostril and a more aesthetically pleasing nose. The procedure may take 45 minutes up to an hour.
Time to recover
After undergoing alar plasty, you can expect to feel pain and swelling for several days. After this period, you will be able resume your regular activities. However, some bruising may remain. You will be back to normal in 4 to 6 weeks depending on the circumstances.
Scars
The scars after an alarplasty procedure will be affected by a few things. It can be done quickly under local anaesthesia. The surgeon will then make an incision at the alar base to create the smaller nose. The surgeon will use sutures to strengthen the new alar base shape. The wound then gets bandaged. The patient may then be given pain medication and instructions for how to prevent infection. He will be required to wear a bandage for a few days after the procedure.
Prices
The cost of alar plasty varies widely, depending on the surgeon and the location where it is performed. 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 blood work and pre- and/or post-operative appointments. These costs will vary depending upon the patient’s medical history and individual needs.
Optimal nostrils
Alar plasty is a procedure that aims to restore the optimal shape of your nostrils by positioning the ala in the ideal position. This procedure can correct problems such as nasal obstruction, caudal end deviation, and nostril asymmetry. It can also improve the symmetry and width of the nostrils.
Sill excision
To address sill flare or sill width, you can perform alar plasty to exclude the sill. 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 surgery, Weir excision allows for the narrowing of the nostrils. This procedure is performed by making an incision on the inside of the nostril, just below the natural lip crease. This incision will wrap around the nostril floor and the inside of the nostril. The wound then closes with sutures. 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.