LAM FACIAL PLASTICS

Dr. Lam,

I like the size and shape of my nose, but I don't like how my nostrils flare up even when they are relaxed. Is it possible to reduce only nostril flare, and what are special risks associated with this surgery?

Please give me some information. Thank you!

George

yes, that is possible. the major risks to know of this surgery are as follows:
1. a noticeable scar that even with dermabrasion down the road may still be visible on close inspection. this is an area around the sides of the nostril that sometimes does not heal well. i go 0.5 mm outside the edge to let it sink in to the groove better but this still does not guarantee perfect healing. i tell all my patients this before they elect to have surgery there
2. badly done procedure where the nostrils look cut off. it is so important that the nostril sill be preserved so that the shape of the nostril is maintained.
3. the nose looks actually worse because your problem was not the flared nostril but a prominent and wide central nasal tip causing the width to the nose. reducing the nostrils in individuals with a wide nasal tip can cause the central tip to look worse.
4. airway problems. this is truly rare but should be considered if you go to an aggressive doctor who really tries to make the nostril very small.
5. change in size that is favorable but change in shape of the nostril that is not. each time you reduce a nostril there are different incisions that you can use to make the nostril smaller. sometimes overeducing one area can cause the nostril to buckle and become rounder even though the width is smaller.
6. failed result because even though some was taken out the nasal base width is so wide that the nostril is smaller but the width of the nose is still wide and you do not perceive an improvement.

as you can see, you really need an in-person consultation to help you discuss how and why a surgeon would help you in your particular situation.
best,
s.