Alarplasty, also known as alar base reduction, refers to a common surgical procedure that helps in the changing of the shape of the nose. This type of surgery is extremely popular among people who wish to get a reduction in the look of their nasal flaring and also people who wish to make their nose appear more symmetrical.
WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE FOR ALARPLASTY?
Anyone who feels like their nose may need a reduction or has a flared appearance can apply for this surgery. However, there are certain criteria and parameters that one must meet before opting for the alarplasty.
You are a good candidate and eligible for alarplasty, if:
- You have good health and do not smoke
- You have had surgical procedures around your nose and have healed completed from them
- You do not have unrealistic expectations about how your cosmetic procedure can change your appearance
What are your current nose shape, current or previous health conditions, and previous cosmetic procedure history, are also big determinants or factors that will decide if you are a good candidate for the surgery or not.
You may consult a doctor and get their help in determining whether you pass as a successful candidate for the alarplasty surgery or not.
THE PROCEDURE FOR ALARPLASTY
The procedure for the surgery of alarplasty includes preparing the candidate for the surgery. The patient is advised to arrange for a friend or a family member to drive them back after the surgery and help them. This must be done because during the surgery, you will be under the influence of general anesthesia, and it may be dangerous to drive while you are intoxicated.
In the next step, the surgeon discusses the result with you and also marks the areas on your nose where incisions will be made. Then, you will be under influence of anesthesia and the doctor will carve out the skin from your nose that you wish to get rid of. After making the incisions are made, sutures are made in order to reinforce the new shape of the alar base.
After the surgery, your wound is dressed with a bandage and you will be prescribed some pain medications and will be given instructions on how you can prevent infections after your surgery.
POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS
As with all other cosmetic surgeries, there is always a risk of complications with the alarplasty. These possible complications of alarplasty are as follows:
- Scarring
- Discharge of pus from the site of surgery
- Infection
RECOVERY AFTER THE SURGERY OF ALARPLASTY
The recovery time for the surgery of alarplasty is, in comparison to other surgeries, relatively quick. In the initial period of the recovery from the surgery, your nose will be red and swollen. You can start feeling better and healing from the surgery in the span of 1 to 2 weeks. The stitches shall be removed within 1 week of the surgery. However, the full recovery is completed in the span of 1 to 3 months.