Specialized African American Rhinoplasty (Nose Jobs)

/in , /by

The Art of Rhinoplasty (Nose Jobs) for African Americans –

Just as people from different ethnic backgrounds typically have different hair texture, eye color or skin tone – people of different ethnicities also generally have different nasal shapes. Usually, though not always, men and women of African American descent have a shorter nose and/or a wider base of the nose, with so-called “flared” nostrils.

Ideals of beauty vary from culture to culture, from country to country to country, and even from decade to decade. It takes a talented rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Ali to understand how to enhance a patient’s natural beauty by restructuring the nose to complement the rest of the face, without erasing the ethnic heritage that makes you who you are.

In other words, it is important for African Americans to seek out a plastic surgeon who does not just “generalize” African rhinoplasty and give everyone a “Caucasian” nose.

An African American rhinoplasty specialist, like Detroit area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali, will take a more personalized approach to rhinoplasty. For men and women of color, Dr. Ali will customize each patient’s nose job surgery to enhance their appearance without erasing “who they are.”

Considerations of African American Nose Jobs

Some of the distinct characteristics of African American noses are visible from the outside. However, there are also other differences that only the plastic surgeon sees within the nasal structure itself, below the surface. Because the anatomy of the nasal framework and nasal bones of African American patients can differ from other ethnicities, it is essential that the plastic surgeon understand these differences.

The cartilage in the “tip” of African Americans noses tends to be less prominent than in Caucasians or Asians. This smaller projection can result in a nose that is wider and nostrils that are “flared”. Surgeons using outdated techniques will sometimes implant a silicone or Gortex tips in Black patients who wish greater nasal ‘projection’. However, this is ill-advised. Synthetic implants often migrate and move over the years – and can even eventually poke through the skin. Most patients with implants will need to have them removed and/or revised at some point over time.

Instead of implants, Dr. Ali uses autologous grafts – which are cells taken from the patient’s own body to build the nasal bridge. These cells the become incorporated into the patient’s  nose, and therefore do not migrate – providing lifelong results.

Another consideration of Black nose jobs is care not to remove too much tissue in an attempt to make a nose smaller. Removing large amounts of nasal cartilage weakens the skeletal support, often resulting in deformity or complete collapse over time. An example of too much cartilage removal is Michael Jackson’s nose job – which left him with almost no nose at all!

Rather than removing cartilage, a skilled surgeon will preserve skeletal support by reshaping, repositioning, or reinforcing the tip cartilage, not removing it.

Nose Job Surgery and Black Skin

Additionally, the nasal skin of African American populations is often thicker as well as more prone to scarring than the skin of other ethnicities.  Dark-skinned people develop thick ‘keloid’ scars 15 times more frequently than lighter-skinned individuals. A skilled plastic surgeon will understand this – and take the steps to to ensure that there is no visible scarring.

Also, because the nasal bones of some black men and women have a more horizontal than vertical orientation, simply fracturing the nasal bones often will not allow them to be narrowed sufficiently. In these cases, the autologous tissue grafts discussed above are better for increasing the definition of the bridge of the nose. This process can build up a low nasal bridge and wider tip, to improve facial balance and proportion, without giving Black patients a nose that looks “out of place.”

See Your Nose Job Before Your Surgery with 3d Imaging

AMAE Plastic Surgery is among the first and only plastic surgery practices in the Detroit area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D imaging. This revolutionary computerized imaging system provides a three-dimensional digital image of the patient’s nose from any and every angle – so that Dr. Ali can show you your nose shape options and expected outcomes before your rhinoplasty surgery!

With Vectra M2 3D patients can compare “before and after” nose job views side-by-side, so that they can see an approximation of the new nose shape and size that rhinoplasty surgery can deliver.

African American Nose Jobs (Rhinoplasty) Surgeon

Dr. Ali understands that one-size-fits-all never applies to beautiful noses. He will customize a rhinoplasty for you that offers the aesthetic alterations you desire, without erasing your important ethnic background.

Before performing an African American rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Ali will carefully examine your nasal structure and consult with you on the best course of action to ensure a naturally beautiful result – ensuring optimal harmony between the nose and the rest of your face, while preserving the natural beauty of your proud African American heritage.

Black Nose Job Specialist | Detroit Area: 248-335-7200

Nose Job Techniques: Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

/in , /by

The Difference Between Open & Closed Rhinoplasty –  –

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has performed hundreds of rhinoplasty surgeries – giving women and men the beautiful and natural looking noses that they love!

But, as with any surgery, an incision does have to be made during rhinoplasty – in order to access and modify the cartilage that shapes the nose. So, one of the primary concerns that Dr. Ali’s patients have is the degree of scarring they may experience after a nose job.

The type of surgical technique that is used to perform the rhinoplasty will determine where and what type of scarring may be possible. And, every person’s skin heals slightly differently.

However, in the hands of a skilled board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali, the potential for visible, lasting scars is greatly reduced – while ensuring the most attractive and natural nasal contour. Additionally, modern advancements in surgical technology have made surgical procedures much less invasive – reducing the degree of scarring greatly.

In this article we explain the different types of rhinoplasty surgical techniques, the incisions involved, and the potential for any scarring.

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

“Closed” rhinoplasty is a type of rhinoplasty in which all of the surgical incisions are hidden within the inside of the nostril. This technique is great, since it avoids a potentially visible scar. However, it also significantly reduces the surgical access area for the surgeon, which limits their ability to utilize many of today’s most effective rhinoplasty techniques.

“Open” rhinoplasty, uses a small (4mm) trans-columellar incision, to connect the right and left nostril incisions- which allows the nasal skin to be folded upward. This gives the surgeon much greater access to the nasal structure, enabling them to modify and/or strengthen the skeletal framework using more advanced and complex techniques.

Although the open rhinoplasty incision initially leaves a small visible scar, it is very tiny (4 mm) and it often fades completely in the months following surgery. And, in cases where substantial revisions of the nose are needed, the advantages in contouring gained by the open approach are well worth the limited risk of a tiny scar.

Endonasal Rhinoplasty: A Closed Nose Job

A closed rhinoplasty is also called endonasal rhinoplasty.  Parallel incisions encircle nearly half of the nostril lining, but no part of the incision is seen externally. But, because the right and left nostril incisions are disconnected, the entire operation must be conducted through narrow surgical openings which limits access visibility.

Also, because access to the nasal framework requires vigorous stretching of the skin, some distortion of the nasal cartilage is possible. In many cases the considerable challenges and technical limitations of endonasal rhinoplasty makes it an inferior choice – even though it avoids visible scaring.

External Rhinoplasty: An Open Nose Job

An open rhinoplasty is also called an external rhinoplasty.  The small bridging incision, (trans-columellar incision) offers the surgeon direct visibility of almost the entire nasal framework. There is no stretching, so distortion of the nasal cartilage is minimize. Most skilled plastic surgeons agree that the small visible columellar scar (which fades over time) is worth the improved accuracy and effectiveness of the open rhinoplasty approach.

For these same reasons, open rhinoplasty is also my preferred approach for primary (non-revision) rhinoplasty since it improves diagnostic accuracy and facilitates precision re-engineering of the misshapen nose. However, the technical demands of open rhinoplasty are rigorous, and substantial dedication and commitment to this approach are required to achieve consistently superior results.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

For patients desiring only minor or subtle changes to their nose, a third non-surgical alternative is now available. Dr. Ali is also skilled in the injection of facial fillers to remedy small cosmetic issues in the nose, including smaller bumps, slight asymmetry, etc.

The advantage of a filler or “liquid” rhinoplasty is that there in no downtime or recovery period – other than some slight swelling that dissipates in a few days. And because there are ni incisions, there are no scars and no pain afterwards. However, unlike a nose job – which is permanent – non-surgical “liquid rhinoplasty” results typically last from a year to two years.

Birmingham’s Top Rhinoplasty Surgeon

In the expert hands of a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, the open rhinoplasty approach often offers technical advantages over closed rhinoplasty. And because the scar is so small and “beneath” the nose, it is not visible from most angles when looking at the face.

But for patients only requiring minor revisions or adjustments to the nose’s structure, closed rhinoplasty may be the best option. And for men and women who only desire minor revisions to the appearance of their nose, non-surgical liquid rhinoplasty with fillers can be an excellent alternative.

Birmingham area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men love their noses and improve their confidence with rhinoplasty surgery. Schedule a consultation and take the first step toward getting the nose you have always wanted – and look and feel like the best version of “you” that you can be!

Rhinoplasty Consultation | Top Birmingham, MI Plastic Surgeon: 248-335-7200

Top Detroit Plastic Surgeon Dispels Nose Jobs Myths

/in , /by

Top Detroit Plastic Surgeon Dispels Myths About Nose Jobs –

Many of us look in the mirror and wish we could tweak our features. And while you can make your teeth straighter with braces, or your eyelashes longer with mascara, changing the appearance of your nose takes a little bit more work.

The good news is that modern rhinoplasty techniques have replaced the old ideas of a “nose job” that you probably still have – and changing the shape of your nose is much easier and far less painful than most people think.

As one of the the Detroit area’s top rhinoplasty surgeons, Dr. Ali put together a list of  5 common “myths” about today’s more advanced (and much more comfortable!) “nose jobs.”

Nose Job Myth #1. Everyone Will Know You Had Plastic Surgery
FACT: A Good Nose Job is Subtle & Natural

Early nose jobs left people with noses that were unnatural looking and clearly surgically altered. Today’s rhinoplasty techniques are more subtle, refined and artistic – leaving patients with a more attractive version of their existing nose, that is balanced, proportionate to their other facial features, appropriate for their bone structure, and that doesn’t erase their ethnic heritage.

Old rhinoplasty techniques involved removing nasal cartilage. This often lead to an unnatural look, and sometimes structural collapse and even deformities. Modern board certified plastic surgeons, like Dr. Ali, sculpt and reposition the existing cartilage without removing it – ensuring a nose that is both natural looking and structurally sound.

In other words, today’s nose jobs create a more beautiful nose without changing who “you” are. In most cases, people will comment on how great you look – but not even realize that you’ve had your nose done!

Nose Job Myth #2. Most Celebrities Are Born Beautiful
FACT: Many Celebrities Have Had Nose Jobs – Even Though They Deny It!

Models’ and actors’ faces are their bread and butter – but very few of them were born with movie-star facial features. And because these celebrities want us to believe that they were “born beautiful” very few publicly talk about their nose jobs.

But if you look at before and after photos of the world’s biggest stars you will see that many of their noses are straighter, smaller or more refined than when they began their careers. Jennifer Anniston, Tyra Banks, Cameron Diaz, Kaley Cuoco, Jillian Michaels and JLO are all celebrities who ADMIT to having had nose job surgery.

And, if you look at Before & After Photos, Britney Spears, Scarlet Johansen, Blake Lively, Kim Kardashian, Katie Holms, Penelope Cruz, Kylie Jenner, Natalie Portman, and even The Queen Be, Beyoncé appear to have had nose jobs!

The list of celebrity nose jobs is almost endless. But because they are done by skilled plastic surgeons, they simply create a more beautiful version of the nose that looks completely natural – and is not a glaringly “noticeable” nose job.

Nose Job Myth #3. You’ll Look Like You’ve Been in a Prize Fight
FACT: Modern Surgery Techniques Make Recovery Easy

In the early days of rhinoplasty, less sophisticated medical techniques lead to horrifying pictures of nose job patients – immobilized in hospital beds, head wrapped in bandages, eyes swollen shut, and big black eyes. And TV programs and movies still sometimes perpetuate this erroneous stereotype for comedic effect.

The truth is, you will leave our medical facility after your nose job on the same day with only a small nasal cast – usually a lightweight aluminum bridge – to stabilize and protect your nose during the initial recovery phase.

There will be some slight bruising and swelling around the nose – but the majority of our patients do not develop “black eyes” at all. And while everyone heals differently, you will certainly be “presentable” enough to go out in public the very same or next day.

Nose Job Myth #4. Your Nose Will Be Packed Full of Gauze after Rhinoplasty
FACT: Splints Replace Packing in Modern Nose Job Surgery

Some people avoid considering a nose job, because they erroneously fear that their nasal cavities will be pack with miles of gauze, making it uncomfortable to breath. Again, this is a misconception!

In modern rhinoplasty soft silicone splints are typically used to stabilize the internal structures of the nose during the first week of recovery. These splints actually help facilitate open airways and better breathing while you heal.

Nose Job Myth #5. Rhinoplasty Is Very Painful
FACT: Nose Jobs Can be Almost Painless

Recovery from any medical procedure is a very personal experience and can differ greatly from person to person. But a nose job is among the least painful surgeries – because it primarily only involves manipulation of the cartilage and does not impact muscles, bones or deeper tissue. Additionally, advanced minimally invasive surgical techniques mean much smaller incisions and much less discomfort – both during and after rhinoplasty surgery.

Use of long-term anesthetic during your nose job procedure means you will not feel a thing. And medication prescribed afterwards will fully manage any pain or discomfort after the surgery.

Depending upon how extensive the procedure, some patients even report experiencing little or no pain following surgery. And all of our patients unanimously agree that any short term discomfort was well worth having a beautiful nose on their face for the rest of their lives.

Top Nose Job (Rhinoplasty) Surgeon | Detroit Area

If you are hesitant about considering a nose job, your concerns are likely based on myths and misconceptions about rhinoplasty that arose from procedures performed back in the 1950s. Today’s rhinoplasties are very routine, yielding exceptional outcomes with very little downtime or discomfort. And the results last a lifetime.

So there’s no reason to wait to get the nose you’ve always! If you live in the Detroit area, call all top rated, board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali for a consultation today.

Top Detroit Nose Job Surgeon:  248-335-2700

Respecting Your Heritage with Ethnic Rhinoplasty

/in , /by

Ethnic Rhinoplasty – Respecting Your Heritage

Ethnic rhinoplasty is a distinct category of “nose job” which incorporates an understanding of the patient’s unique ethnic heritage and cultural beauty ideals – to help ensure that patients maintain their natural appearance while enhancing their facial features.

When it comes to Latin, African, Asian, and Middle Eastern noses, there are certain hereditary differences in scale, shape, and projection that should be carefully taken into consideration when doing rhinoplasty surgery. Otherwise, the surgeon may be at risk of making the patients nose appear unnatural, incongruous, or no longer reflective of their cultural heritage.

For this reason, it is important for people of color to look for a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali who has performed rhinoplasty on people of all ethnicities – with expertise in understanding and respecting genetic differences and unique cultural ideals of beauty.

Cultural Sensitivity & Ethnic Rhinoplasty

First and foremost, ethnic rhinoplasty necessitates that the surgeon be aware of the specific distinctions and differences of ethnic groups from around the world.  The surgeon should also have a thorough understanding of each patient’s personal and cultural beauty standards, rather than just relying on standard, “mainstream” or “Western” societal ideals.

The human nose is unique in that it has a variety of characteristics that vary by population. Broader nostrils coupled with a less pronounced bridge are common attributes of African American noses, which may lead some patients of Black heritage to consider rhinoplasty.

A low and broad nasal bridge, combined with a shortened and upturned nasal tip, little nasal projection, and relatively thick skin are all attributes common among many Asian populations – leading some patients to seek a nose that is slightly more “pronounced”.

And while some patients may want only minor modifications, others may desire more significant changes. Every person has the right to determine what will make themselves feel confident and attractive in their own skin!

Ethnic Rhinoplasty: Respecting Your Heritage Ethnicity

Most people are looking for opportunities to better their appearance in general. To improve our bodies, we change our diets and work out. Most women wear make-up to enhance their natural beauty, and everyone selects clothes that are “flattering.” Considering plastic surgery, such as rhinoplasty, is another excellent method of enhancing one’s appearance.

But when contemplating rhinoplasty, one important concern is not sacrificing the cultural origin which makes an individual special and “who they are.” This is why selecting the right surgeon for ethnic rhinoplasty is so critical.

There is no such thing as a “one size fits all” nose, not just because each individual has his or her own distinct facial features, but also because ethnic traits must be taken into account. The intent behind ethnic rhinoplasty is to modify a patient’s look while still remaining true and respectful to his or her race or ethnic heritage.

The final result of rhinoplasty should be a harmonious one, with no evidence that surgery was ever done. Overall, the aim of ethnic rhinoplasty is to celebrate and enhance (not change or erase) one’s heritage, beauty and diversity!

Ethnic Rhinoplasty: Not Changing Who You Are

The nose is similar to a complicated puzzle in which every piece must match correctly. Rhinoplasty takes this puzzle and reassembles and recreates the nose in a smooth and seamless manner, as if the original pieces were not altered in any way. To put it another way, a “better” aesthetic does not necessarily have to be overt. Even the tiniest modifications may have a major impact on the nose’s silhouette, resulting in a noticeably more pleasing variation.

For many years, as a result of the demands of popular culture, many celebrities went too far in shaving the nasal bridge down or cutting off the end. This type aesthetic is not only unnatural and highly telling, but it even exposes the nose to structural damage. Michael Jackson is one famous person whose plastic surgeon “went to far” with a rhinoplasty and caused structural damage to the nose. This is all the more reason to seek a board certified plastic surgeon with years of experience. Remember, more cartilage can be removed later, but adding cartilage if too much has been removed can’t be done.

The nose is not only in the middle of the face, but it also centers the face, bringing all of the face’s distinct features together in a balanced manner. A good rhinoplasty requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy of the face in relation to each of its constituent components. In fact, no surgical procedure has a greater impact on the face’s general composition than rhinoplasty.

So, rather than focusing only on the nose as an isolated object, the cosmetic surgeon should consider the patient’s physical appearance as a whole. And, in the case of ethnic rhinoplasty the patient’s personal and cultural ideals of beauty should also be of the utmost importance.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty | Detroit Area

Ethnic rhinoplasty has never been more common. This is, in large part, because modern rhinoplasty techniques make recovery from surgery faster, safer and less painful than ever. And, with many people already working from home during the pandemic, there is no need to take prolonged time off work while your nose heals!

Schedule an appointment for an ethnic rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Ali at AMAE Plastic Surgery in the Detroit area today to learn more about how ethnic rhinoplasty can enhance your appearance, while ensuring you remain true to your natural beauty and ethnic heritage.

What to Expect with Nostril Reduction Surgery

/in , /by

What to Expect with Nostril Reduction Surgery: Before, During & After

Alarplasty is the medical term for nostril reduction surgery. It’s a specific type of rhinoplasty (nose job) that narrows the width of the nostrils. Nostril reduction surgery, also known as “alar base reduction surgery”, is a surgical operation that subtly alters the base of the nose, typically making it less wide or broad, while still retaining a natural appearance.

Nostril reduction surgery is a highly effective procedure for people who want to reduce the appearance of nasal “flaring”, or who desire to make their nose or nostrils look more symmetrical.

Nostril reduction surgery is also a procedure that can enhance the appearance of a person’s nostrils by ensuring that they are proportionate to the rest of the nose, and the other facial features. Even when the nose is the right size for the rest of the face, enlarged nostrils can make an otherwise “perfect” nose seem larger altogether.

Dr. Ali has restored hundreds of patients’ confidence in their appearance with nostril reduction surgery, by balancing the nose and nostrils with the rest of the face.

In this article Troy, MI area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali explains what to expect before, during and after nostril reduction surgery.

Before Nostril Reduction Surgery: Making the Decision

If a person’s nose is “flared” – or their nostrils seem open and conspicuous – they may consider nose reduction surgery.

The fleshy sections of the nose that bind your nostrils to the face itself are known as “alar”. Alar can vary greatly from person to person – and be thicker or thinner, longer, or shorter, wider or narrower. Certain ethnicities are more prone to wider alar, such as individuals of African heritage.

Nostril reduction surgery removes a very small amount of the alar – changing the width of the nose – without compromising a person’s identity or racial identity. Even minute changes to the alar can cause dramatic improvement in the appearance of the nose.

Good candidates for nostril reduction surgery include:

  • patients who do not smoke and who are in good health,
  • patients who have completely recovered from previous surgical operations (if any) in the nose region,
  • patients with reasonable expectations regarding the ways in which a surgical operation can alter their appearance!

The best way to find out how nostril reduction surgery may be able to help you obtain your desired appearance goals is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali. He is one of Michigan’s first and only plastic surgeons to offer cutting-edge Vectra 3D imaging for the face.

Revolutionary Vectra 3D imaging creates a three-dimensional computerized view of the patient’s nose from every angle, allowing Dr. Ali to show you your choices and projected results prior to your nostril reduction surgery procedure.

During Nostril Reduction Surgery: The Procedure

Nostril reduction surgery is actually a type of rhinoplasty – but it is a less invasive procedure than a full “nose job”.

Prior to surgery, the patient will need to create arrangements for someone to take them to and from the doctor’s office or hospital. This is particularly important for anyone receiving general anesthesia.

In most cases “local” anesthetic is all that is needed. General anesthesia (being put to sleep) is not usually necessary during nostril reduction surgery. However, if the nostril reduction surgery is being combined with a conventional rhinoplasty (full nose job) the patient will typically be “put under”.

A marker will be used to draw lines on the nose, showing the exact location of the incisions. After the “alar” is subtly reduced, sutures (stitches) will be used to stabilize the new outline of the alar (base of the nose). A bandage will be applied afterwards, and patients will be given medication for pain relief – as well as instructions for post-opt care and recovery, including how to avoid infection at the surgical site.

After Nostril Reduction Surgery: Recovery

When compared to other facial treatments, the recovery period for nostril reduction surgery is quite short. Initially, the nose will be red and swollen, but this will most likely subside after 1 to 2 weeks. The stitches are usually removed one week after surgery at a follow up appointment. Most patients recover fully within 1-2 weeks. And usually there is only mild swelling lasting no more than a month.

Dr. Ali will discuss what precautions each patient should take after nostril reduction surgery, to help ensure that the healing process moves as rapidly as possible. Most importantly, patients need to prevent injury to the nose during the recovery period. So, strenuous activities, exercise, and most athletic activities need to be avoided until the nose heals fully in place.

Nostril Reduction Surgery | Troy, MI Area

Nostril reduction surgery can enhance your natural beauty by reducing the size of the nostrils, while ensuring that you still look like you!

Contact Dr. Ali in the Troy, MI area for a consultation and Vectra 3D imaging, to determine if this nostril reduction surgery is right for your appearance goals.

Nostril Reduction Surgery – Frequently Asked Questions

/in , /by

Nostril Reduction Surgery FAQs

Noses are like snowflakes – no two are identical. And what one person finds appealing may not fit another person’s ideal of how they wish to look. For some people, even a perfectly likeable nose can be diminished (in their opinion), by wide nostrils.

Even if the nose is the right size for the rest of the face, enlarged nostrils can make the nose seem larger or slightly out of proportion. And being dissatisfied with your nose can negatively impact a person’s self-esteem. The bottom line is that it’s your nose … and rhinoplasty or nostril reduction surgery can help you adjust its appearance to make you happy! What is nostril reduction?

Technically, nostril reduction surgery is called “alarplasty”. It is a specific type of rhinoplasty or “nose job”.

Also known as “alar base reduction surgery”, Nostril Reduction is a surgical operation that alters the base of the nose. It can help people who wish to narrow the appearance of nasal flaring, as well as patients seeking more symmetry in their nose’s form.

Nostril reduction surgery can also make the size of the nostrils more proportionate to the rest of the nose and face – which can enhance the aesthetic appearance of the entire face.

How do I Know What Nostril Reduction Will Look Like?

The decision to alter the shape of one’s nose is a personal one and should be handled with care and careful consideration. Dr. Ali will perform a facial examination during your consultation to discuss your appearance goals, and to help you determine the ideal proportions for your unique nose and nostrils.

To make your decision easier, our advanced Vectra-3 diagnostic computer imaging system can allow patients to see their nostrils from the side, behind, front, and above before electing to surgery. Then it will show you a series of images of what the nose might look like after different surgery options. This way you can visualize your nostril reduction results before you undergo the procedure!

How Will Nostril Reduction Surgery be Performed?

Dr. Ali is skilled in changing the scale and breadth of the nostrils while minimizing or preventing the appearance of any scars. This is achieved by making a series of thin, barely visible incisions within the nose’s base.

The “Weir excision” is one of the most common techniques used by Dr. Ali to shorten the nostril foundation and reduce the nostril sidewalls, to enhance the overall appearance of the nose. Other types of incisions may, however, be used if Dr. Ali should decide that they would produce the best possible results. The intention, of course, is to keep the nose’s base looking as natural as possible, while still reducing the width.

The “wedge procedure” is another nostril reduction technique. By eliminating wedges of alar (the fleshy, angled lower portion of the nose that connects to the cheek) wedge excisions eliminate nasal flaring. In this process, the incisions are made along the outside of the nostril but do not narrow it. Instead the incision “detaches” the nostril subtly from the cheek – for a less “flared” appearance.  There is also the Sill technique – which is used to limit nostril width and shorten the base of the alar, at the point where it attaches to the cheek.

Based on what you and Dr. Ali decide during your Vectra 3D imaging session, Dr. Ali will select the best surgical technique for your appearance goals.

How Does Nostril Reduction Surgery Effect People of Color?

People of different ethnic origins naturally have certain types of hair, eye colors, and skin tones specific to their ethnicity. And the nasal structure of different ethnicities is also often equally unique to their heritage. For example, men and women of African origin usually have a nose that is more flat and broad, often with a wider base, or a more rounded tip. And, in addition to differences in genetics, different cultures also have their own unique concepts of beauty.

Dr. Ali is a talented rhinoplasty surgeon who is skilled at enhancing a person’s natural beauty while still preserving their ethnic heritage and identity.

When it comes to rhinoplasty or nostril reduction, it’s important for people of color to find a board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali who doesn’t simply create “one-size-fits-all” noses. Dr. Ali is a rhinoplasty expert and Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon who tailors each rhinoplasty surgery to the patient’s facial features and proportions, while respecting their genetic heritage, and and honoring their cultural beauty ideals.

How Long is the Recovery Process Following Nostril Reduction Surgery?

When compared to other types of facial plastic surgery, the recovery period for nostril reduction surgery is comparatively short. Initially, the nose will be red and swollen, but this will gradually subside over the following 1 to 2 weeks. The stitches are usually removed approximately one week after surgery.

While nostril reduction surgery puts very few restrictions on the patient during recovery, first and foremost the patient must take care not to injure the nose while it is healing. So, strenuous or rough activities, such as exercising and most types of athletics should be avoided until the nose is fully healed in place.

Nostril Reduction Surgery – Birmingham, MI

Dr. Ali is one of the leading rhinoplasty surgeons in Birmingham, MI and the entire Detroit area. He is highly skilled in minimally invasive and scarless nostril reduction surgical procedures. Dr. Ali has spent years honing his expertise in this sensitive and complex area of plastic surgery, and he is passionate about designing noses that are both cosmetically and clinically superior.

Schedule a nostril reduction consultation today, and see exactly what Dr. Ali can do to help you achieve your appearance goals!

Rhinoplasty Revision: Fixing a Bad “Nose Job”

/in , /by

Revision Rhinoplasty Surgery: Fixing a Bad Nose Job –

Successful rhinoplasty involves both art and science to achieve a nasal shape that is beautiful, natural and structurally sound for the rest of your life. Unfortunately, many women and men have experienced unsatisfactory and extremely disappointing results from inexperienced or unskilled surgeons.

And in 2021, many people are now forced to confront their own appearance concerns, thanks to the pervasiveness of Zoom appearances – for work, school, connecting with loved ones, socializing and even masking romantic connections. It’s simply hard to ignore a nose you are unhappy with, when the camera is on you all the time. For this reason, we are seeing an increase in requests for revision of rhinoplasties that were previously performed by less skilled doctors.

The great news is that – like any medical technology – advancements have been made over the last several decades in rhinoplasty that replace older procedures with newer and better techniques!

In cases where you are unhappy with a nose job you previously had performed, revision rhinoplasty surgery by a talented, experienced and caring plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali can correct some or all of the damage done by the original rhinoplasty. Dr. Ali uses state of the art techniques – and years of experience – to perform revision rhinoplasty that can correct problems with old “nose jobs” and deliver more beautiful and natural results.

Reasons for Bad Nose Jobs

An unfavorable cosmetic outcome of a nose job can be due to a wide range of causes, but poor technical execution by the surgeon is often to blame. Unfortunately, in the early years of “nose jobs”, the only way surgeons knew how to alter the shape of the nasal tip was the aggressive removal of cartilage. This type of “excisional rhinoplasty” often resulted in the nose becoming progressively deformed over time – because the supporting cartilage had been removed.

And, sadly, many incompetent surgeons still “go to far” with nose jobs – resulting in a very unnatural “plastic-surgery” look, as well as structural defects that cause malformation over time.

Additionally, in previous decades of nose job surgery, many surgeons tried to achieve a single type of “ideal” nose shape for all patients – shortened and turned up on the end. While this nose shape may look proportionate or “cute” on certain women, it does not take into consideration the ethnic heritage of the patient. A “Caucasian nose” may not only look out-of-place on an Asian or African American individual, but can also erase a person’s important ethnic identity.

Michael Jackson’s aggressive rhinoplasty surgery is a classic example of a nose job that “went to far” causing structural problems, as well as compromising his racial identity.

In other cases, a “bad nose job” may be the result of a medical issue, such as infection, scar formation, skin contracture or tightening that pulled on the tip, or even warping of the cartilage that changed the shape. And even a “good” nose job can go “bad if the nose is subsequently injured by an accident, a fall, a blow, or during athletic activities.

Choosing the Right Revision Rhinoplasty Surgeon

The good news is that, whatever the cause, when a rhinoplasty “goes bad” revision rhinoplasty by a skilled plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali can help restore your appearance and correct structural defects. Dr. Ali is trained in the most advanced “endoscopic” techniques – meaning he can perform many rhinoplasty revisions with minimally invasive techniques that involve tiny incisions and almost no scarring.

And, Dr. Ali is also skilled in using certain injectable fillers to adjust and correct proportions and symmetry – in some cases revising the nasal profile, without surgery altogether! Dr. Ali also understands the unique nasal characteristics of different ethnicities – and he has the skill and experience to enhance your beauty, while retaining a natural appearance that doesn’t change “who you are”!

3D Vectra Nose Job Imaging

Dr. Ali is one of only a few plastic surgeons in the entire Birmingham and greater Detroit area to offer state-of-the-art Vectra 3D facial imaging technology. Using digital imaging Dr. Ali can show you what your nose will look like after your nose job or revision rhinoplasty surgery. This enables patients to visualize their expected results – so they can decide if, when and how they would like to proceed with surgery or other revision procedures.

Risks of Revision Rhinoplasty

In general, a first time or “primary” rhinoplasty is extremely routine and exceedingly safe – and serious complications are quite rare and can be treated effectively.

However, a secondary or revision rhinoplasty is always associated with higher risks, because the nasal tissues have previously been affected by prior surgery. In addition to pre-existing inflammation from prior surgery, there is typically also increased subcutaneous scarring, diminished blood supply and reduced skin elasticity. And, in the case of excisional rhinoplasty there may also be damaged or missing cartilage and other skeletal elements.

That is why it is extremely important to choose a highly skilled, experienced board certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali for revision rhinoplasty surgery.

Board Certified Revision Rhinoplasty Surgeon

As with anything else, it is always easier to do something right the first time, rather than try to fix something that was done poorly and improperly. In some cases, an existing nose job’s deformities are so severe as to require multiple surgeries to normalize the nose. In other cases a misshapen nose cannot always be completely reconstructed into a “perfect nose” – but substantial improvement is almost always an option in the hands of a skilled, Board Certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Ali.

But in the vast majority of cases, Dr. Ali can reconstruct your nose into a shape, proportions and symmetry that complements your facial features, and leaves you satisfied with your appearance. And Vectra 3D imaging technology in our Birmingham office takes the “guess work” out of knowing what your results will be!

Birmingham’s Best Revision Nose Job Surgeon

If you are suffering from an unsuccessful or “botched” nose job, call Birmingham Board Certified Plastic surgeon Dr. Ali for a evaluation and consultation.  He will help you set realistic expectations, and explain your surgical options for correcting your previous nose job – ensuring that you achieve the best possible rhinoplasty results in your situation.

Revision Rhinoplasty Consultation | Birmingham: 248-335-7200

A Complete Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery (Part II)

/in , /by

A Complete Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery (Part II)

When a person decides to get rhinoplasty, they’re making a choice that will impact the remainder of their lives. Such a big decision requires first acquiring all necessary knowledge regarding the procedure.

In Part II of our Complete Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery, board certified Troy, MI plastic surgeon continues to discuss everything a prospective patient needs to know before visiting us for rhinoplasty.

CLICK HERE for Part 1 of The Complete Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery

The Rhinoplasty Surgery Procedure

At AMAE Plastic Surgery in Troy, MI, most of our rhinoplasty procedures are performed on an outpatient basis. There are two distinct methods of performing the procedure: Open Rhinoplasty and Closed Rhinoplasty. While both methods involve making an incision in the internal nostril region, Open Rhinoplasty also includes an additional, external incision on the tissue dividing the nostrils.

The skin of the nose will then be “undraped,” allowing for visibility of the nose’s inner structures. Open Rhinoplasty allows for substantial changes to be made to the nose, and is most commonly performed either to correct a previous, “botched” procedure, and on patients whose noses have a particularly challenging anatomy.

During Closed Rhinoplasty, on the other hand, no external incisions are made. With them all instead made inside the nose, Open Rhinoplasty is less likely to result in scarring. However, the results of Closed Rhinoplasty are considerably subtler than Open Rhinoplasty.

Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali carefully determines the method of rhinoplasty best suited to meet his patients’ needs, and has an outstanding track record performing countless instances of both Open and Closed Rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery & Downtime

While no two cases of rhinoplasty are ever the same, most cases of both open and closed rhinoplasty are followed by at least one-to-two weeks of downtime. Most Closed Rhinoplasty patients experience the most rapid period of recovery within 5 to 6 days, after which time they are free to remove the splint from their nose and resume their normal daily routine.

But although rhinoplasty patients usually experience a relatively quick period of initial recovery, their complete healing process can continue for as long as one to three years. Since the skin of the nose requires time to shrink to its new, underlying framework, the total healing process is longer than many other forms of cosmetic surgery.

But while rhinoplasty patients do experience a recovery period longer than other plastic surgery patients, they generally also experience less pain. While rhinoplasty usually results in a fair amount of bruising and swelling, patients routinely report any pain following the procedure to be surprisingly tolerable. To ensure his rhinoplasty patients experience as little pain as possible, board-certified Troy, MI plastic surgeon Dr. Ali gladly recommends and prescribes appropriate pain medications.

Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Be it rhinoplasty, open heart surgery, or anything in between, no surgery whatsoever can be successfully performed unless carried out by a skilled, certified, and experienced surgeon.

For anyone in the Troy, MI area looking for the right rhinoplasty surgeon, the choice is simple: board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali. Dr. Ali’s years of experience in the field of cosmetic surgery poise him as the area’s leading provider of rhinoplasty.

Dr. Ali carefully and precisely provides his rhinoplasty patients that both meet their aesthetic goals, and maintain or improve their noses functionality. Choosing the right surgeon is perhaps the most important decision a person must make after deciding to get rhinoplasty. In selecting Dr. Ali, patients are guaranteed to have made the right choice.

Rhinoplasty Surgery – Troy, MI Area

At AMAE Plastic Surgery in the Troy, MI area we are thoroughly committed to providing all of our rhinoplasty patients with the best treatment experience possible.

If you live in the greater Troy, MI area – and you’re ready to look and feel great about your nose with rhinoplasty – call AMAE Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation.

Troy, MI area Rhinoplasty Surgery Consultation: 248-335-7200

Checklist for Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

/in , /by

Checklist for Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon–

Board certification is an important first consideration in choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon. However, it alone does not give a full picture of a rhinoplasty surgeon’s technical and artistic skill, experience, ongoing educational enrichment, reputation and  personal integrity.

While there is no completely foolproof way to assess whether a particular rhinoplasty surgeon is the one for you, there are a number of factors to consider, and when put together with proper board certification, you can get a fairly complete picture as to a surgeon’s competence and expertise.

If you are considering rhinoplasty surgery, use this handy checklist to help assess the surgeon you are considering:

Checklist of Factors to Consider in a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

.
☐ Board certification in plastic surgery indicating the surgeon has surpassed the stringent examination requirements for plastic surgery

☐ A good reputation in the medical community and among former patients, and a willingness to provide references

☐ Extensive experience – ideally a surgeon would perform 100+ rhinoplasty procedures per year.

☐ No history of disciplinary procedures or malpractice claims against the surgeon

☐ Availability of a variety of “before” and “after” photographs of satisfied patients whose procedure your surgeon personally performed

☐ Recognition of your surgeon’s peers, which might include published papers, awards, lecturing at professional seminars, etc.

☐ Specialization in the type of procedure you are considering – has performed hundreds of rhinoplasties

☐ Having good rapport and communication with patients; a surgeon who takes plenty of time to answer your questions, give clear instructions and allay your concerns

☐ Being admitted to practice at one or more highly rated hospitals, and performs procedures at an accredited surgical facility.

The decision to have rhinoplasty surgery is extremely personal. You want to be completely comfortable with the procedure itself, and more importantly, with the surgeon who will perform it. Not only are you placing your appearance in their hands, you are also putting your life in his or her hands.

No matter how outstanding a surgeon’s qualifications are, if you are not comfortable with him or her, you should look for someone who is completely the right fit.

Rhinoplasty Surgeon Dr. Ali Meets All of These Criteria

Dr. Ali is board certified plastic surgeon who has the experience, artistic skill and technical expertise to help you choose a nose that will enhance your appearance and accomplish your goals, as he has done with a host of satisfied patients.

He will show you hundreds of before and after rhinoplasty photographs of his satisfied patients, so you can see the quality of his work.

If you live in or near the Troy, Michigan area and are considering rhinoplasty, give us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali to discuss what options may be available to you.

Best Troy, MI Area Rhinoplasty Surgeon

If you are considering rhinoplasty, Troy, Mi area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali will offer you a consultation to assess your nasal structure and discuss your appearance goals

He understands both the state-of-the-art medical techniques and the artistic implications of enhancing your appearance while retaining a natural appearance that complements your facial features. He has helped hundreds of women and men love their noses and improve their confidence with successful rhinoplasty surgery.

Get the nose you have always wanted with rhinoplasty surgery,  and be the best version of “you” that you can be!

Schedule a Troy, MI area Rhinoplasty Consultation: 248-335-7200

How to Choose a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

/in , /by

How to Choose a Rhinoplasty Surgeon– 

Deciding whether to have rhinoplasty surgery, also called a nose job, is a huge decision. Rhinoplasty will permanently alter your appearance – in fact, you will see the results every time you look into a mirror. Therefore, it is critical that you choose a surgeon who is experienced, skillful, and artistic; a surgeon who will leave you with a nose that is attractive, in correct proportion to your other facial features, that is balanced, and that looks completely natural.

Dr. Azhar Ali, a prominent board certified plastic surgeon in the Troy, Michigan area, who extensive experience and training – as well as thousands of satisfied plastic surgery patients. Dr. Ali is also a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons, and has been rated Top Doc by Hour Detroit Magazine multiple years in a row.

In this article he discusses what to look for when selecting a rhinoplasty surgeon.

Choosing a Qualified Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Surgical skill is crucial to a positive rhinoplasty outcome. Choosing a surgeon with the right experience and training is extremely important. Less qualified physicians may use poor or outdated surgical techniques which are almost guaranteed to lead to disappointing results and in some cases, even physical deformity.

It may seem difficult to believe, but some surveys report that a major factor in choice of surgeon is that he or she be conveniently located near the patient’s home. Making the choice based on location is extremely risky. You may be lucky enough to have a talented rhinoplasty surgeon nearby, but since it is such a specialized area of medicine, you may need to venture further from home to find someone with the right qualifications.

What Types of Surgeons Can Perform Rhinoplasty Surgery

Many people don’t realize that surgeons from a variety of medical specialties may perform rhinoplasty, including general surgeons and ear, nose, and throat (ENT) surgeons. However, while they may be well-versed in the technical aspects of rhinoplasty surgery, studies are clear that the most successful cosmetic nasal surgeries are performed by plastic surgeons with board certification.

If you are solely interested in alleviating breathing problems, you may assume that consulting a board certified ENT surgeon is your best option. However, while an ENT surgeon may be skilled at sinus and functional nasal airway surgery, when it comes to altering the actual appearance of your nose, you’ll generally want to choose a plastic surgeon.

What Board Certification Means Why It’s Important for Rhinoplasty Surgeons

Board certification indicates that the surgeon has received additional training beyond what is required to hold a medical license. To be certified means that a surgeon has met the highest standards of education, training and knowledge in a specific field of surgery. Board certification is voluntary and demonstrates a surgeon’s commitment to quality patient care.

Other Factors to Consider in a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

While board certification indicates that a practitioner has surpassed the knowledge-based examination requirements for a particular specialty, it alone does not give a full picture of a physician’s technical and artistic skill, experience, ongoing educational enrichment or personal integrity. In fact, there is no completely foolproof way to assess whether a particular surgeon is the one for you. However, there are a number of factors to consider, and when put together with proper board certifications, you can get a fairly complete picture as to a surgeon’s competence and expertise.

Your rhinoplasty surgeon should also have no history of disciplinary procedures or malpractice claims against him or her. And they should make available to you dozens, if not hundreds, of  “before” and “after” photographs of their satisfied rhinoplasty patients whose procedure your surgeon personally performed.

Additionally, reputation and recognition of your surgeon’s peers – including published papers, awards, lecturing, etc. – can say alot about your rhinoplasty surgeon. Finally, the surgeon should have performed hundreds of rhinoplasties – and not just do rhinoplasty as a sideline to a different type of medical practice.

Best Troy, MI Area Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Troy, Mi board certified Rhinoplasty Surgeon Dr. Ali meets all of the above criteria and more. He has the experience, artistic skill and technical expertise to help you choose a nose that will enhance your appearance and accomplish your goals, as he has done with a host of satisfied patients.

If you live in or near the Troy, Michigan area and are considering rhinoplasty, give us a call to schedule an appointment with Dr. Ali. He will offer you a consultation to assess your nasal structure and discuss your appearance goals.

Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men love their noses and improve their confidence with successful rhinoplasty surgery. Get the nose you have always wanted with rhinoplasty surgery,  and be the best version of “you” that you can be!

Schedule a Troy, MI area Rhinoplasty Consultation: 248-335-7200