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Narrowing Nostrils for Greater Facial Harmony

A beautifully shaped nose should have nostrils of the right size in proportion to the nose overall. At Torkian Facial Plastic Surgery, we perform our Alarplasty procedures in Beverly Hills with precision and skill to narrow the nostrils and create greater facial harmony.

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What Is Alarplasty?

Also known as nasal base surgery, alarplasty is a surgical procedure most commonly performed in order to narrow nostrils that are overly wide. The alar is the section of the nose where the nostrils become rounded and extend toward the cheek. Our Alarplasty procedure is performed to address this specific area, reshape, increase, or decrease the width of the nostrils for functional or cosmetic reasons within Beverly Hills.

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How Does Alarplasty Relate to Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a general term referring to plastic surgery performed to reshape the nose for functional or cosmetic reasons. Also known as nose reshaping, rhinoplasty is one of the top five most popular cosmetic surgeries in the U.S., according to statistics provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

Alarplasty can be considered a subcategory among the procedures that fall under the general category of rhinoplasty. It can be performed by itself or as part of a comprehensive rhinoplasty procedure. While rhinoplasty can change the structure and appearance of the entire nose, alarplasty changes only the width and shape of the nostrils.

So glad I went to Dr. Torkian. It's been over a year since my procedure, and I have been so happy with the results. Due to a previous break, there was a bone that was out of place, which disrupted my breathing. Dr. Torkian was able to fix the problem so that I am able to breathe better, but he also straightened my nose and made it look great. The follow-up appointments are so helpful, and he always spends time with me and answers all my questions. I really like that he can show you what you will look like after the procedure... he is able to give you the best look for your face.

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How Wide Should the Nostrils Be?

Although it varies with ethnicity, generally the nasal base should be as wide as the eye or the area between the eyes and account for approximately one-fifth of the width of the face. Wider nostrils tend to draw attention, distract from the other facial features, and impact facial balance.

When viewed from below, the shape of the base of the nose is generally triangular. The outer nostril wall should have a gentle convexity between the nasal tip and the alar crease (where the nostril meets the face). When there is too much convexity in the shape of the alar, it can have a negative effect on facial balance and the overall appearance of the nose.

Alarplasty and Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Some ethnicities are more likely to have wider nostrils and a nasal flare. Alarplasty in Los Angeles is often included in ethnic rhinoplasty procedures. This is more common in people of certain ethnic backgrounds.

Am I a Good Candidate for Alarplasty?

If you have nostrils that are overly large in proportion to your nose and facial features, you may be a good candidate for alarplasty. This procedure may also be recommended for patients with nostrils that are too narrow or appear pinched. The ideal candidate for our Alarplasty procedure is a man or woman in good overall health who is unhappy with the size and shape of their nostrils.

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Meet Dr. Torkian Your Highly-Trained Los Angeles Alarplasty Surgeon

Dr. Behrooz Torkian is one of the top alarplasty Beverly Hills nose surgeons serving the greater Los Angeles area. He is double board-certified in both facial plastic and reconstructive surgery and otolaryngology (head and neck surgery). He has extensive experience performing all types of nose surgery and has a reputation for excellent, natural-looking results.

Dr. Torkian has dedicated his practice to procedures of the face, head, and neck. Before performing an alarplasty Beverly Hills procedure or any other type of nose surgery, he considers the patient’s goals and facial anatomy to design a customized surgical plan. The goal is to create a beautiful nose in balance with the remaining facial features.

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Alarplasty Frequently Asked Questions

Does an alarplasty procedure in Beverly Hills leave a scar?

Any surgical incision will leave a scar. However, the incision for alarplasty is well hidden in the natural crease where the nostrils meet the cheeks. Incision lines will fade to become even less detectable over time.

What should I do to prepare for an alarplasty procedure in Beverly Hills?

You may be asked to stop taking aspirin, Ibuprofen, anti-inflammatory medications, herbal remedies, and high-dosage multivitamins for two weeks before the surgery, and to refrain from drinking alcohol or smoking for at least two weeks before and two weeks after the procedure. Be sure to get a good night’s sleep before the day of the surgery. Bathe and wash your hair, but do not apply any lotions, creams, or makeup. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and a top that buttons in the front. Remove all jewelry and nail polish before arriving for your procedure.

How is a Beverly Hills alarplasty performed?

As a standalone procedure, alarplasty can be performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. To narrow the nostrils, the surgeon makes an incision in the alar region where the nostrils meet the cheeks, either on the inside or the outside of the nose. The surgeon then removes a specific amount of tissue and closes the incision with sutures.

How long does an alarplasty in Beverly Hills take?

This delicate procedure to narrow and reshape the nostrils can be performed under local anesthesia in less than an hour. Alarplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, and patients are released to go home after the procedure.

What is recovery like after an alarplasty in Beverly Hills?

Unlike rhinoplasty, no bone or cartilage is removed in an alarplasty procedure, which makes recovery faster and easier for the patient. You can expect minor bruising and swelling, which should resolve within a few days after surgery. A cold pack applied to the treatment area can help reduce swelling. Avoid sleeping with your face against the pillow. Do not blow your nose, and if you sneeze, open your mouth to divert airflow from the nose. Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the surgery and return to work within one week. Sutures are removed in seven to 14 days. Avoid strenuous activity for two to three weeks after the procedure.

What results can I expect from the alarplasty Beverly Hills procedure?

After alarplasty surgery at Torkian Facial Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, you can expect long-lasting results that are immediately visible. Final results will appear when post-surgical swelling fully subsides. The nostrils will be smaller, and the structure of the nose will appear more symmetrical. When properly performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon, alarplasty can bring a striking increase in the balance and harmony of your facial structure.

Schedule an Alarplasty Beverly Hills Consultation

If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or length of your nostrils, alarplasty can create a more sculpted, defined look that enhances your facial appearance. Get your questions answered in a private consultation with Dr. Torkian, who is among the leading facial plastic surgeons practicing in Beverly Hills, widely recognized for the excellence of his work in this delicate procedure. Call today to schedule a consultation for arguably the best Alarplasty Beverly Hills has to offer.

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