Alarplasty / Wide Nostril Reduction Surgery in New York

How Do You Make Your Nose Smaller?

For reduction rhinoplasty or nose size reduction, Dr. Miller uses a small, wedge-shaped piece of nasal soft tissue which is removed from where the nostril connects to the cheek at the alar base. The rhinoplasty stitches on the nose cause the skin to achieve a narrower position at the base of the nose. Dr. Miller makes incisions either inside or at the base of the nose, typically hidden within the natural nose crease. The result is narrow or smaller nostrils and minimal to no obvious alarplasty scars.

You may learn more about rhinoplasty terminology here.

What Does Alarplasty Treat?

Alarplasty treats the following cosmetic concerns:

• Nasal shape – Changes to the alar nose or alar crease make the nostrils smaller, creating an overall narrower nose shape.
• Nasal size – Through nostrils surgery, different sized nostrils can be corrected and nostril size reduction can be achieved.
• Breathing issues – Whether performed alone or combined with rhinoplasty, nostril surgery can correct asymmetry issues or different size nostrils, enabling better airflow and breathing function.

Dr. Miller's Approach to Nose Reduction Surgery

If you are considering nose reduction surgery in NYC, the importance of a plastic surgeon's expertise and experience cannot be overstated. Wide nostril rhinoplasty requires a facial plastic surgeon who is well-versed in the latest rhinoplasty techniques and has intricate knowledge of nasal anatomy. It is a good idea to view the surgeon's before and after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the work and the type of results you can expect to achieve.

Dr. Miller is a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon with offices in both New York City and New Orleans. He brings more than two decades of experience and is considered by his peers to be an expert in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation procedures. He develops personalized treatment plans that combine desired changes with the preservation of their unique features, including ethnic identity, for the best possible results.

If you are considering nose reduction surgery in NYC, the importance of a plastic surgeon's expertise and experience cannot be overstated. Wide nostril rhinoplasty requires a facial plastic surgeon who is well-versed in the latest rhinoplasty techniques and has intricate knowledge of nasal anatomy. It is a good idea to view the surgeon's before and after photos of previous patients to get an idea of the work and the type of results you can expect to achieve.

Dr. Miller is a double-board certified facial plastic surgeon with offices in both New York City and New Orleans. He brings more than two decades of experience and is considered by his peers to be an expert in rhinoplasty and facial rejuvenation procedures. He develops personalized treatment plans that combine desired changes with the preservation of their unique features, including ethnic identity, for the best possible results.

His proprietary consultation process is known as Natralook, which is a process that includes an evaluation of the patient's nose and other facial features while considering carefully the patient's specific issues and aesthetic goals. NatraLook enhances the usual plastic surgery experience into a safe, collaborative environment where patients can explore their aesthetic confidence. Dr. Miller works with each of his patients to create a unified vision for optimal results and the most natural outcome possible.

Alarplasty Before and After

Am I a candidate for alar base reduction?

If you are dissatisfied with your appearance because your nostrils are too long or wide, you are a potential candidate for alar base reduction. Those who want to refine the results of their previous rhinoplasty or would like to address a traumatic facial injury can also benefit from a nose job for the nostrils.

The ideal rhinoplasty nostril reduction candidates are non-smokers, in good general health, and at least 16 years of age to ensure the facial features are fully developed. Noses reach full growth in girls between the ages of 13-14 and boys between 15-16. The first step in determining your candidacy for a nose job is to set up a consultation with Dr. Miller.

Nostril Reduction Surgery FAQ

What are the benefits of nostril reduction rhinoplasty?

• Improved appearance – Nostril reduction can produce a whole new look. Whether you want subtle or distinctive changes, a new nostril shape can be the foundation for a new you.
• Increased self-confidence – When you feel good about how the world sees you, you feel good about yourself. Even small changes can make a big difference and help you gain confidence in your appearance.
• Better health – Perhaps it isn’t just your large nostrils that have you bothered. Maybe having one nostril smaller than the other is causing you breathing difficulties or other health problems. A rhinoplasty reduction or alar crease reduction can improve both the nose’s appearance and functionality, allowing you to breathe easier.

How much does alarplasty cost in NYC?

Nostril reduction costs anywhere between $6,000 to $9,000 in New York City. This is the average price for the area, but the true cost varies from patient to patient, depending on factors such as the patient’s aesthetic goals, the length and involvement of the surgery, anesthesia and facility fees, and the surgeon’s experience. The actual cost will be provided during your consultation. For more information on alar base reduction cost, please contact Dr. Miller at his Manhattan, New York, or New Orleans, Louisiana, plastic surgery office.

How will the procedure go?

Dr. Miller will make an incision in the nose’s alar region where the nostrils meet the cheeks, either inside or at the base of the nose. He will sculpt the tissue and then close the incisions with sutures to reinforce the narrower shape of the alar base. 

Dr. Miller can perform a nose job for big nostrils under local anesthesia in less than one hour. Alarplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, and you will be released to go home after your surgery.

What does recovery from alarplasty look like?

Recovery time is relatively quick. Unlike a typical rhinoplasty procedure, no cartilage or bone is removed in an alarplasty. Any swelling, bruising, and tenderness will be resolved within 1-2 weeks, and stitches will be removed around the same time. Most patients can resume their normal activities within one week. Strenuous activities must be avoided for 2-3 weeks after surgery. Full recovery from alarplasty typically takes 1-3 months.

Does it hurt?

Typically, alarplasty alone can be performed under local anesthesia, and the surgery is well tolerated. It is a quick procedure and done in a very conservative manner. Pain medication is provided and may be taken to alleviate any pain, although few find it necessary.

It is important to discuss all your concerns with your surgeon before your surgery. Dr. Miller will be able to set your expectations for your recovery and recommend specific after-care solutions to make your healing process as smooth as possible. 

Will insurance cover my wide nostril reduction surgery?

If the reason for rhinoplasty reduction is purely cosmetic, it is not covered by insurance. If it is provided to correct breathing or other functional issues, then it may be covered by your insurance policy.

Schedule an Alarplasty Consultation in New York

Learn more about alarplasty or wide nostril reduction surgery in NYC by contacting us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Miller. You may fill out our contact form or contact us at (646) 791-3025. You will be put in touch with a patient advisor who will help you get started on your rhinoplasty goals.

Next, learn about Hispanic rhinoplasty.