Altering the alar crease makes the nostrils smaller by creating a narrower nasal shape.
Alarplasty focuses on altering the base of the nose and treats the following concerns:
“Dr. Kulbersh helped me feel much more comfortable going into the surgery. I knew what to expect. The surgery went very well and the recovery was even better than I expected it to be. I am very please with my results, I would recommend him to anyone who is interested in this procedure.”
Alarplasty focuses on altering the base of the nose and treats the following concerns:
Altering the alar crease makes the nostrils smaller by creating a narrower nasal shape.
Surgery can create smaller nostrils that are proportionate to the rest of the nose.
By correcting nasal asymmetry, patients often find they can breathe easier.
Dr. Kulbersh removes nasal tissue from the area where the nostril connects to the cheek at the alar base. He reshapes the tissue to narrow the base of the nose and closes the incisions with sutures to hold the new nasal shape. Incisions are typically made either inside the nasal cavity or at the base of the nose and are hidden within the natural crease of the nose. The result is a narrower shape with smaller nostrils and minimal alarplasty scars.
Dr. Kulbersh can perform alarplasty under local anesthesia and the procedure often takes an hour or less. However, if another correction is needed, the procedure may be performed as a full rhinoplasty with general anesthesia and take longer to complete. Alarplasty is done as an outpatient procedure, so you may go home after your surgery.
Recovery time after alarplasty is relatively quick since no bone or cartilage is removed. Post-surgery swelling and bruising typically resolve within 1-2 weeks, during which sutures are removed. Most patients return to their normal activities one week after surgery and resume more strenuous activities after two to three weeks. You can expect a full recovery in 1-3 months.
Alarplasty is typically performed under local anesthesia. It is a quick, straightforward procedure that is performed conservatively and generally well tolerated by patients. Pain medication may be taken, but most patients find it unnecessary.
You may discuss all your questions and concerns with Dr. Kulbersh before your surgery. He will be able to address them and recommend the best preparation and after-care solutions that ensure a smooth recovery process.
If nostril reduction surgery is performed for cosmetic purposes, insurance will not cover it. If it is done to address breathing and functional issues, a portion of the procedure may be covered. Check with your insurance carrier before undergoing surgery to confirm possible benefits available.