Some patients presenting for cosmetic surgery need to have a change in nostril size and shape.
The most common reason for narrowing the nostrils is that the width of the floor of the nostrils is too great, in proportion, to the remainder of the nose.
It is often a feature of certain ethnic noses that the nostrils require attention. Typically, wide nostril floors are common in Asian people. Combined with that are rather thick walls of the ala or wings which are the outer portion of the nostril. If the walls are very thick and the width of the floor of the nostril is wide, then there is a strong reason to narrow the nostril. Note that it is not possible to reduce the thickness of the nostril wall, however, effectively, the nostril wall “moves in” as the nostril floor’s width is diminished.
The procedure is usually done at the time of the other cosmetic nasal surgery procedures. In order to hide the incision it is placed in the crease between the nostril and the upper lip. The incision is carried into the floor of the nose. The external portion is closed with several layers of stitches. The outer layer of which is typically removed in 5-7 days. Deeper hidden incisions ultimately dissolve, but remain in place for up to 90 days to reduce the chance of any separation of the incision, therefore maximizing the cosmetic appearance.
Dr. Kotler's Patient After Nostril Narrowing
It is important that symmetry and a natural look be achieved. Further, over-narrowing of the nostrils, in addition to producing unsatisfactory appearance, might have an influence on breathing.
Dear Dr.:
I need a nostril reduction, what happens if i have a nevous (nevus) in one nostril, is there any risk to have a bad scar?? thanks for your kind response.
The nevus can be shaved off and thus should not interfere with the cosmetic procedure. The only question that presents itself is whether it should be shaved off ( office procedure) before the rhinoplasty or whether it can be dealt with at the same time. Location and thickness drive the decision; we have done it both ways successfully.