Introduction
For individuals in New York City who are considering nasal ala base contraction, finding the right hospital and surgeon is crucial. Nasal ala base reduction is a surgical procedure that can help improve the appearance of the nose by narrowing the base of the nostrils, enhancing facial symmetry and harmony. In this article, we will explore some of the top hospitals in New York City that offer this procedure, along with the relevant details about the surgery, including techniques, benefits, candidates, risks, and recovery.
What is Nasal Ala Base Contraction?
The alar base is the triangular portion of the nose where the nostrils meet the upper lip and cheek. When the alar base is wide, it can make the nose look disproportionate to the rest of the face or create an imbalance with other facial features. Nasal ala base contraction, also known as alarplasty or nasal base reduction, is a surgical technique aimed at narrowing the alar base to achieve a more refined and balanced nose.
There are several factors that can contribute to a wide alar base. It is often a genetic trait and can be more prevalent in certain ethnic groups. In some cases, the nostrils may appear larger when a person laughs, smiles, or expresses emotion. Additionally, changes in the nasal structure due to aging or previous injuries can also affect the appearance of the alar base.
Benefits of Nasal Ala Base Contraction
- Improved Facial Symmetry and Balance: By narrowing the alar base, the nose becomes more in proportion with the rest of the face, enhancing overall facial harmony.
- Refined Appearance of the Nose: The procedure can result in smaller, narrower nostrils, giving the nose a more refined and aesthetically pleasing look.
- Boost in Self - Confidence: A more attractive nose can have a positive impact on a person's self - esteem and confidence, as they feel better about their appearance.
- Reduced Nostril Flare: It helps to minimize the flaring of the nostrils, which can be a concern for many patients.
- Long - lasting Results: Once the surgery is complete and the healing process is over, the results are generally long - lasting.
Top Hospitals for Nasal Ala Base Contraction in New York City
LM Medical NYC
LM Medical NYC has locations in Greenwich Village and the Upper East Side. They offer nostril reduction surgery and alar base reduction. Dr. Lesley Rabach, a top double - board certified facial plastic surgeon, specializes in rhinoplasty and cosmetic nose surgery at this facility.
Nostril Reduction Surgery: This procedure can be performed without a complete nose job. Small, discreet incisions are made at the base of the nose to adjust the size and shape of the nostrils. The result is smaller, narrower nostrils while leaving the rest of the nose untouched.
Alar Base Reduction Surgery: Small incisions are placed at the crease alongside the nose at the cheek and in the nostril to adjust the alar base. This can improve nasal symmetry, reduce nostril size, and achieve better facial harmony.
Cangello Plastic Surgery
Dr. Cangello is NYC’s preeminent rhinoplasty surgeon at Cangello Plastic Surgery. He offers customized treatment plans and transformative results in nasal base reduction.
Understanding Nasal Base Anatomy: Dr. Cangello carefully evaluates each patient’s unique nasal anatomy before determining the surgical technique. The nostrils are separated by the columella, and the nasal sill extends from the bottom of the columella to the alar base insertion. The anterior nasal spine, lower lateral cartilages, caudal septum, maxilla, upper lip, and the soft tissue and skin that envelop the nose all contribute to the overall appearance of the nasal base and its width.
Surgical Techniques:
- Alar Wedge Excision: Also known as the weir incision, this is the preferred technique for minimizing excessively flared ala. It removes wedge - shaped pieces of tissue from the nasal flare, sparing an incision in the nostrils. It helps to avoid over - straightening of the ala and preserves the natural curvature.
- Nasal Sill Excision: Typically used in the correction of enlarged nasal sill width along with excessive flare in the ala. It is indicated when the nasal base has a horizontal axis and the nostrils are enlarged.
- V - Y Advancement: Used to reposition the alar insertion if the lateral insertion of the ala is responsible for excessive nasal base width. However, it will leave a scar on the face, so it is rarely performed.
Candidates and Risks: Candidates for nasal base reduction are individuals concerned with the excessive width of the base of their nose. The procedure has minimal risks when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Cangello. If performed alone (without concomitant rhinoplasty), it can be done under local anesthesia. Recovery time is roughly one to two weeks, with full recovery taking approximately one month. Rare risks include infection, bleeding, and scarring.
Dr. Jeffrey Lisiecki
Dr. Jeffrey Lisiecki, a surgeon specially trained in facial aesthetic and rhinoplasty, offers alar base reduction in NYC. The procedure is also known as alarplasty or nostril reduction surgery.
Alarplasty Surgery Overview: The surgeon numbs the area under operation using an anesthetic, and the entire procedure takes about one hour. An incision is made to remove tissue where the nostril and the cheek meet. The doctor then removes a wedge of the nostril and brings the nostrils inwards to create better balance with the face. The procedure is repeated on the other side of the nose. Specialists may combine several techniques for more satisfying results, and it can be performed alone or as part of a more comprehensive rhinoplasty.
Ideal Candidates: Ideal candidates for alar base reduction are those who are uncomfortable or unhappy with their nostril shape and size. They should be in perfect health, non - smokers, have recovered from previous surgeries near the nose area, and have realistic expectations of the outcome. Past cosmetic procedures, present and past health conditions, and the current shape of the nostrils also determine eligibility.
Benefits and Preparation: Benefits of the surgery include minimal scarring (as scars can be hidden under the nose creases), natural results, a smaller and more balanced nose, less invasiveness compared to rhinoplasty, and minimized nostril flare. Patients are advised to stop taking alcohol, smoking vapes or cigarettes, and taking blood - thinning medications such as aspirin and Advil two weeks before the operation to avoid prolonged swelling or increased bleeding.
Recovery Process: After the surgery, the incision is closed with sutures, which are removed after 7 - 10 days. Patients may experience redness, swelling, and bruising, and the swelling can last up to a few weeks. They can resume their daily routine and fitness after three weeks. Tips for a quicker recovery include keeping the area clean, following the doctor’s post - surgery instructions, elevating the head to reduce swelling, avoiding alcohol for at least two weeks after the surgery, and avoiding sleeping on the face.
Other Relevant Hospitals in New York City
Mount Sinai
Mount Sinai offers advanced rhinology and sinus surgery services at multiple locations throughout Manhattan, including Mount Sinai Doctors East 85th Street, Mount Sinai Doctors Staten Island, Mount Sinai Downtown - Union Square, Mount Sinai West, and the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary of Mount Sinai. Their division of rhinology, sinus surgery, and allergy is at the forefront of treating the full range of nasal and sinus diseases, and they have fellowship - trained surgeons who are experts in endoscopic sinus and skull base surgery, inflammatory sinus surgery, and all nasal obstruction surgeries. Although their focus is more on medical treatment of nasal and sinus conditions, they may also be involved in cases related to nasal base reduction in a multidisciplinary context.
Weill Cornell Medicine
Weill Cornell Medicine has ear, nose, and throat (ENT) departments in multiple locations in New York City. Their nose and sinus experts provide treatment for various nose and sinus disorders, including sinusitis, sinus tumors, pituitary tumors, deviated septums, allergic rhinitis, nasal polyps, and nosebleeds. They offer a comprehensive approach to care, including access to a network of doctors and specialists, and use the latest diagnostic equipment and minimally invasive procedures. While their primary focus is on treating nasal and sinus diseases, they may also be relevant in cases where nasal ala base contraction is part of a more comprehensive treatment plan for patients with nose - related issues.
Choosing the Right Hospital and Surgeon
When choosing a hospital and surgeon for nasal ala base contraction, there are several factors to consider:
- Experience and Expertise: Look for a surgeon who has extensive experience in performing nasal ala base reduction surgeries. Check their credentials, board certifications, and the number of similar procedures they have completed successfully.
- Reputation: Read patient reviews and testimonials to get an idea of the surgeon's and hospital's reputation. You can also ask for referrals from friends, family, or other medical professionals.
- Before - and - After Photos: Request to see before - and - after photos of previous patients who have undergone nasal ala base contraction at the hospital. This will give you an idea of the potential results.
- Communication: A good surgeon will take the time to listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and explain the procedure and its risks and benefits in detail. Make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the surgeon and the hospital staff.
- Cost and Insurance: Understand the cost of the procedure, including all associated fees such as surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post - operative care. Check if your insurance will cover any part of the surgery.
Pre - operative and Post - operative Care
Pre - operative Care
Before the nasal ala base contraction surgery, you will have a consultation with the surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your nasal anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and explain the surgical procedure and its potential risks and complications. You may also need to undergo a physical examination and some laboratory tests to ensure you are in good health for the surgery.
As mentioned earlier, you will need to stop certain medications and habits, such as taking blood - thinning medications, smoking, and drinking alcohol, for a period of time before the surgery. You may also be given instructions on how to prepare your skin and hair for the procedure.
Post - operative Care
After the surgery, you will need to follow the surgeon's post - operative instructions carefully. This may include taking medications as prescribed, keeping the surgical area clean and dry, and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period of time. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the nose area, which is normal. Applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can help reduce swelling.
You will need to attend follow - up appointments with the surgeon to monitor your healing progress. The surgeon will remove the sutures if necessary and check for any signs of infection or other complications. It is important to be patient during the recovery process, as it may take several weeks or months for the final results of the surgery to become apparent.
Conclusion
Nasal ala base contraction can be a life - changing procedure for individuals who are unhappy with the appearance of their nose due to a wide alar base. In New York City, there are several top - notch hospitals and experienced surgeons who can perform this procedure safely and effectively. By choosing the right hospital and surgeon, and following the pre - operative and post - operative care instructions, you can achieve the desired results and improve your facial appearance and self - confidence.
If you are considering nasal ala base contraction, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with a qualified surgeon at one of the hospitals mentioned in this article. Take the time to research and make an informed decision about your treatment. Don't hesitate to ask questions and seek second opinions if needed. Your journey to a more confident you starts with taking that first step.
