Introduction
Alar cartilage reshaping is an important aspect of rhinoplasty, a surgical procedure that aims to improve the appearance and function of the nose. In New York City, a hub of medical excellence, there are several highly skilled doctors renowned for their expertise in alar cartilage reshaping. This article will provide a comprehensive ranking of these doctors, exploring their qualifications, experience, patient reviews, and unique approaches to the procedure.
What is Alar Cartilage Reshaping?
Alar cartilage reshaping is a specialized procedure within rhinoplasty. The alar cartilages are the lower, outer parts of the nose that shape the nostrils. Reshaping these cartilages can address a variety of concerns, such as wide or flared nostrils, asymmetry, or a droopy nasal tip. By modifying the alar cartilages, surgeons can create a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing nasal appearance while also potentially improving nasal function.
Top Doctors for Alar Cartilage Reshaping in New York City
Dr. Yoel Shahar
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Yoel Shahar is one of the most prominent rhinoplasty surgeons in New York City. He has performed thousands of rhinoplasty and nose - reshaping procedures at his private practices in both New York City and Israel for nearly 25 years. He is a board - certified cosmetic surgeon, a board - certified general surgeon, an associate fellow of the American Medical Association, and a fellow of multiple surgical colleges, including the American College of Surgeons, American College of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, and International College of Surgeon. He is also licensed in New York and New Jersey.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Dr. Shahar takes a holistic approach to rhinoplasty, considering all facial features to achieve perfect facial harmony. When it comes to alar cartilage reshaping, he has the skill and artistic eye to create natural - looking results. He understands that each patient's nose is unique and tailors the procedure to meet their specific goals and facial characteristics. He is known for never over - correcting and always recommending alternatives or minimal procedures to achieve natural - looking cosmetic surgery results.
Patient Reviews
Patients have given Dr. Shahar excellent reviews. One patient who had under - eye surgery with him said, "My experience with dr. shahar was a very positive one. He understood what I wanted and he executed it perfectly to my taste. He is careful and conservative in his approach and has a great eye for knowing how to enhance and make a person look their best while maintaining a natural look." Another patient who had a nose realignment due to a childhood accident said, "Recovery was minimal! My nose looks completely natural and complimentary to my features. I couldn’t be happier with the results!"
Dr. Gary Linkov
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Gary Linkov is a double - board - certified and Ivy League - educated facial plastic surgeon. He is certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery. He has performed more rhinoplasty procedures than the majority of facial plastic surgeons in New York and is an adjunct assistant professor at New York University. He is also included in the prestigious Super Doctors New York, Rising Stars™ listings and was featured on the Dr. Oz show.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Dr. Linkov takes a sophisticated approach to rhinoplasty, considering ethnic characteristics, cosmetic, and functional imperfections. When reshaping the alar cartilages, he conducts an in - depth facial evaluation that includes an assessment of the six parameters of the nose to determine the most appropriate approach. He uses advanced methods and the latest advancements in rhinoplasty, medical technology, and equipment in his state - of - the - art surgical facility on Madison Ave in Manhattan.
Patient Reviews
Patients have praised Dr. Linkov for his professionalism and skill. Horace Dailey said, "Dr linkov performed surgery on my nose in december 2019. His professional demeanor, highly skilled, confident, and detailed knowledge of such a precision demanding craft left me in a state of awesomeness! I trust this gentle doctor and highly recommend him to anyone who is considering any of the services that his practice provides!"
Dr. Andrew Jacono
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Andrew Jacono is a dual board - certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He has expertise in ethnic rhinoplasty, which often involves alar cartilage reshaping to respect and maintain the patient's ethnic heritage. He has innovated specialized techniques for different ethnic nasal characteristics.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Dr. Jacono uses a variety of techniques for alar cartilage reshaping depending on the patient's needs. For example, in Hispanic rhinoplasty, he may reduce nostril size by making small incisions within the nose and removing skin tissue. He also uses cartilage grafts to support and reshape the nasal tip. He prefers to use the patient's body's natural cartilage instead of implants to avoid potential complications such as infection or extrusion.
Patient Reviews
Patients who have undergone ethnic rhinoplasty with Dr. Jacono have reported positive results. His before - and - after photos show significant improvements in nasal appearance while maintaining the patient's ethnic identity. For instance, a young Hispanic woman who was unhappy with the width of her nostril base and a visible hump on her nasal bridge had an open rhinoplasty procedure with an alarplasty by Dr. Jacono and achieved a more refined and balanced nose.
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Douglas Steinbrech is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons under the American Board of Medical Specialties. He underwent eight years of surgical training at New York University in general surgery, plastic surgery, and reconstructive surgery. He has been ranked in the top 10 plastic surgeons in NYC and has been awarded grants from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute and the Plastic Surgery Educational Foundation.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Dr. Steinbrech takes an individualized approach to rhinoplasty, tailoring the procedure to each patient's unique facial structure. When reshaping the alar cartilages, he focuses on creating natural - looking refinement and improving both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the nose. His surgical plan may include reshaping and refining the nasal bridge, narrowing wide nostrils, and altering the angle of a crooked nose, all of which may involve working on the alar cartilages.
Patient Reviews
One patient said, "Dr. Steinbrech is what one would call an artist. He has the hand of Michaelangelo; there's no one else I trust as much with my face. Truly a 5 - star experience."
Dr. Moustafa Mourad
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Moustafa Mourad is a board - certified plastic surgeon in New York City. He specializes in various types of rhinoplasties, including primary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, functional rhinoplasty, ethnic rhinoplasty, and male rhinoplasty. He has extensive training in facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Dr. Mourad utilizes advanced surgical techniques for alar cartilage reshaping. He may choose between open rhinoplasty, which provides greater access and precision for complex cases, and closed rhinoplasty, a less invasive option for moderate adjustments. He also uses other techniques such as cartilage grafting, bone restructuring, and the use of implants or grafts as needed to achieve the desired results.
Patient Reviews
Patients have commended Dr. Mourad and his staff for their care and expertise. One patient said, "Super amazing doctor and staff! They’re all so patient and understanding and really care about you. 10/10!" Another patient who had a rhinoplasty/septoplasty with him said, "When I found dr mourad and decided to proceed with the surgery, it was the best decision I ever made. He changed my life."
Dr. Christian Dibelius
Qualifications and Experience
Dr. Christian Dibelius is a highly - regarded revision rhinoplasty surgeon in NYC. His practice is dedicated to rhinoplasty exclusively, and he has been trained by the world's best in the most advanced revision rhinoplasty techniques. Although his focus is on revision cases, his skills in nasal surgery also extend to alar cartilage reshaping.
Approach to Alar Cartilage Reshaping
In revision rhinoplasty cases involving alar cartilage reshaping, Dr. Dibelius takes a meticulous approach. He performs a thorough examination of the patient's nose, including reviewing previous surgical records and photographs. He uses an open technique for better visualization of the nasal cavity and precision in operative techniques. He is also an expert in the use of rib grafts in complex cases and utilizes innovative techniques to reduce postoperative infection.
Patient Reviews
Patients who have had revision rhinoplasty with Dr. Dibelius have reported excellent results. One patient who had a complex revision after a trauma injury to the nose said, "I am so happy with the outcome. I highly recommend him for your rhinoplasty surgery needs." Another patient who had breathing problems and an aesthetically unpleasing nose after previous surgeries said, "The look and function of my nose is already amazing. I literally never expected such a great outcome and am thrilled that I didn't give up."
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Doctor for Alar Cartilage Reshaping
Qualifications and Board Certification
It is crucial to choose a doctor who is board - certified in plastic surgery or a related specialty. Board certification indicates that the doctor has met the high standards of training, experience, and ethical practice set by the relevant medical board. For example, doctors like Dr. Yoel Shahar, Dr. Gary Linkov, and Dr. Douglas Steinbrech are board - certified, which gives patients confidence in their abilities.
Experience
Experience plays a significant role in the success of alar cartilage reshaping. Doctors with a long - standing practice and a high volume of rhinoplasty procedures are more likely to have encountered a wide range of cases and developed advanced techniques. Dr. Yoel Shahar, for instance, has nearly 25 years of experience in rhinoplasty, which gives him a wealth of knowledge and skills in alar cartilage reshaping.
Patient Reviews and Testimonials
Reading patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into a doctor's bedside manner, communication skills, and the quality of their surgical results. Positive reviews from satisfied patients are a good indication of a doctor's ability to meet patient expectations. As seen in the reviews of Dr. Gary Linkov and Dr. Moustafa Mourad, patients often praise their professionalism, care, and the results of their surgeries.
Artistic Ability
Alar cartilage reshaping is not only a surgical procedure but also an art form. A doctor with an artistic eye can create a nose that looks natural and harmonious with the rest of the face. Doctors like Dr. Yoel Shahar and Dr. Douglas Steinbrech are known for their artistic approach to rhinoplasty, ensuring that the results are aesthetically pleasing.
Cost
The cost of alar cartilage reshaping can vary depending on several factors, such as the doctor's experience, the complexity of the procedure, and the location of the practice. It is important to discuss the cost with the doctor during the consultation and to understand what is included in the price. However, cost should not be the sole determining factor when choosing a doctor, as the quality of the surgery and the results are of utmost importance.
Preparing for Alar Cartilage Reshaping Surgery
Consultation
The first step in preparing for alar cartilage reshaping surgery is to schedule a consultation with a qualified doctor. During the consultation, the doctor will evaluate your nasal anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and explain the surgical procedure and its potential risks and complications. They may also take photographs of your nose from different angles to help with the planning of the surgery.
Medical History
You should provide your doctor with a detailed medical history, including any previous surgeries, allergies, medications you are taking, and any underlying medical conditions. Certain medical conditions or medications may increase the risk of complications during surgery, so it is important that your doctor is aware of them.
Lifestyle Changes
Your doctor may recommend certain lifestyle changes before the surgery. For example, you may be asked to stop smoking at least several weeks before the surgery, as smoking can interfere with the healing process. You may also need to avoid taking certain medications, such as aspirin and other blood - thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding during surgery.
Arrangements for Recovery
You should make arrangements for your recovery before the surgery. This may include arranging for someone to drive you home from the hospital and stay with you for the first few days after the surgery. You may also need to stock up on groceries and prepare your home for a comfortable recovery, as you may need to rest for several weeks after the surgery.
Recovery After Alar Cartilage Reshaping Surgery
Immediate Post - Surgery
After the surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be monitored closely by the medical staff. You may experience some swelling, bruising, and pain in the nose and around the eyes. Your doctor will prescribe pain medication to help manage the pain. A splint may be placed on your nose to support the healing nasal structures and protect them during the early stages of recovery.
Short - Term Recovery
During the first few days to weeks after the surgery, you will need to take it easy and avoid strenuous activities. You should keep your head elevated to reduce swelling and follow your doctor's instructions regarding wound care, such as applying antibiotic ointment and keeping the external cast dry. You may also need to use a nasal saline spray to keep your nasal passages moist. Most patients can return to work and their normal activities within a few weeks, although it may take several months for the swelling to completely subside.
Long - Term Recovery
The final results of alar cartilage reshaping surgery may take several months to a year to fully emerge as the swelling gradually goes down and the tissues heal. Your doctor will schedule follow - up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that the healing process is going smoothly. It is important to follow your doctor's advice during the long - term recovery period to achieve the best possible results.
Conclusion
In New York City, there are several outstanding doctors with the skills and expertise to perform alar cartilage reshaping. Doctors like Dr. Yoel Shahar, Dr. Gary Linkov, Dr. Andrew Jacono, Dr. Douglas Steinbrech, Dr. Moustafa Mourad, and Dr. Christian Dibelius have all proven themselves in the field of rhinoplasty. When choosing a doctor for alar cartilage reshaping, it is important to consider factors such as qualifications, experience, patient reviews, artistic ability, and cost. By carefully selecting a doctor and following the pre - and post - operative instructions, patients can achieve a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing nasal appearance.
If you are considering alar cartilage reshaping, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of the doctors mentioned in this article. Take the time to discuss your goals and concerns with them, and make an informed decision based on your research and personal preferences. With the right doctor and proper care, you can look forward to a successful outcome and enhanced self - confidence.
