What to Expect with Nostril Reduction Surgery

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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

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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”

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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)

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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

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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

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☐ 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

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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

 

 

Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 1)

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Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 1)

Dr. Azhar Ali is a prominent board certified plastic surgeon in the West Bloomfield, Michigan area, with decades of experience and a host of satisfied patients. With over 20 years of experience and extensive training, Dr. Ali is 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 three-part article, Dr. Ali answers patients most frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty – discussing rhinoplasty from start to finish, including what it is, how it’s done, and what you should consider before having the procedure.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, sometimes called a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose. It may be performed either for cosmetic reasons or to correct functional problems with the nose. Rhinoplasty is one of the more complicated facial surgeries, because it can include reshaping or removing portions of the bone or cartilage, reshaping or narrowing the bridge of the nose, re-sculpting the tip of the nose, or altering and improving the overall appearance of the nostrils.

What should I look for in a rhinoplasty surgeon?

As mentioned above, rhinoplasties are extremely complex in terms of facial surgeries. Each procedure must be customized to the individual – one nose does not fit all. You will want to find a plastic surgeon with high level skills and considerable experience in performing rhinoplasties. If the nose job is not done well, your nose could end up to be crooked or misshapen, the structure of the nose could actually collapse, and a host of other issues.

There is a lot to consider when reshaping a nose. Of course, the overall function is most important. But the appearance is important as well. You will want the result to be balanced with your unique facial features, rather than just picking someone else’s nose that you like from a magazine photo. Dr. Ali takes all of these factors into consideration, as well as your goals. That’s one of the many reasons he is considered one of the top rhinoplasty surgeons in the West Bloomfield, Michigan area.

Will insurance cover a rhinoplasty procedure?

It depends. If your rhinoplasty is intended to correct breathing dysfunction, most insurances will pay at least for a portion of the surgery. However, if you are having a nose job purely for cosmetic reasons, health insurance plans will not pay for it.

Can rhinoplasty fix the shape of my nose?

Rhinoplasty can correct virtually any structural issue concerning the nose, including crooked noses, noses with a bulbous or droopy tip, one that is too pointy or not pointy enough, lumps, humps or bumps on the bridge, a flattened bridge, misshapen nostrils, or a nose that has been broken or damaged in an accident.

How old do you have to be to get rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty should not be performed on a nose that is still growing. Generally around the age of fourteen for girls and slightly older for boys, nose growth has stopped. Beyond that factor, there are no age restrictions for getting a nose job.

What happens during a rhinoplasty consultation?

Dr. Ali will want to be sure you are healthy enough to undergo facial surgery – some physical conditions or illnesses can increase the risk of complications. A complete health history is taken, including whether you have sustained any type of injury to the nose, what medications you are taking, and what illnesses or health conditions you may have, including allergies.

Then, Dr. Ali will perform a complete examination of your nose, its structure, your facial features and proportions. He will take digital photographs of your face in order to assist him to evaluate what alterations will be most attractive and enhance your unique facial characteristics.

He will spend time answering all of your questions and concerns about the surgery and recovery time, and will provide you with materials to help you understand what to expect.

CLICK HERE FOR PART 2 OF RHINOPLASTY FAQS

 

Top Rhinoplasty Surgeon – West Bloomfield Area

Even small changes to your nose can make a large difference in how your nose looks, how it works, and how you feel about your overall appearance. West Bloomfield area board certified rhinoplasty surgeon Dr. Ali is committed to working closely with you from start to finish to get the results that you will love.

When planning your nose job, Dr. Ali can evaluate your other facial features and help you understand how changes to your nose could enhance or affect your overall appearance. He will then work with you to customize a rhinoplasty surgical plan that will best meet your appearance goals.

West Bloomfield Area Rhinoplasty Consultation: 248-335-7200

 

Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 2)

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Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 2)

Dr. Azhar Ali is a prominent board certified plastic surgeon in the West Bloomfield, Michigan area, with decades of experience and a host of satisfied patients. Dr. Ali is 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 second section of a two-part article, Dr. Ali further discusses questions you may have about a rhinoplasty procedure, including what you might expect in terms of preparation and recovery.

CLICK HERE FOR PART 1 OF RHINOPLASTY FAQS

While this article answers some questions, no doubt you have more. Rhinoplasty is complicated, and the results will be evident for all to see. Therefore, it is important to select a surgeon in whom you have confidence, who will take the time needed to put you at ease, and with whom you feel completely comfortable. If you are in the greater West Bloomfield, Michigan area and are considering rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali to discuss your unique situation.

What do I need to do to prepare for rhinoplasty surgery?

In an extensive appointment before your rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Ali will discuss in detail exactly what you can expect from your surgery. He will tell you what he believes will be the best methods that will most likely give you the results you desire. He will then tell you exactly what to do to prepare for your surgery. Some common instructions include the following:

Some medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen inhibit blood clotting or increase the risk of postoperative bleeding. You will need to stop taking these prior to the surgery.
If you are a smoker, you will need to stop at least a month before your surgery and plan on remaining smoke-free until at least a month afterward. Smoking can inhibit the healing process, which lengthens your recovery time. In fact, you might consider using your rhinoplasty procedure as an excuse to quit smoking altogether.

What can I expect during rhinoplasty recovery period?

Before you leave the facility, Dr. Ali will provide you with clear, detailed aftercare instructions for you to follow, covering such things as wound care and pain management. It is important to follow the instructions carefully and completely.

Surprisingly, the normal recovery period is not as hard as you might think. Most patients describe feeling like they have a stuffy nose or sinus headache. You should expect some swelling of your nose underneath your bandages, and perhaps some bruising under your eyes. These usually disappear within a week or so.

What happens during the rhinoplasty procedure?

You will be placed under either a local anesthesia and intravenous sedation or a general anesthesia. Depending upon the extent of the procedure, Dr. Ali will either make an incision within your nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or in the strip of cartilage and tissue that is located between your nostrils (the columella). This is called an open rhinoplasty, and provides greater access to the inner structures of the nose. Once the incision is healed, it is virtually invisible.

Dr. Ali will then remove excess cartilage, restructure the nasal bone, and correct any defects that are present that interfere with nasal function (such as a deviated septum). If your nostrils need to be reshaped, Dr. Ali will take care of it during the same procedure. Depending on the complexity, the surgery will usually take about three to four hours from start to finish.

What will my first few days at home after rhinoplasty be like?

You will need to have someone drive you home from your surgery since you will have been under anesthesia. You may experience some drowsiness and lightheadedness.

While you’re at it, see if your friend or family member can stay with you for the first night or so. You will likely be very tired and will just want to rest. So having someone help with meals and taking care of the children if you have them is extremely helpful.

For the couple of weeks, you’ll want to keep your head elevated, including during sleep. This helps the healing process. And of course, it is important to avoid any contact with your nose so it can heal properly.

And speaking of children, if you do have them, it’s important that they keep their distance – since you will be out of commission for a while, it’s natural for them to want hugs and reassurance. But be careful – you don’t want your nose to be jarred or bumped!

CLICK HERE FOR PART 3 OF RHINOPLASTY FAQS

Rhinoplasty Surgery – West Bloomfield Area

Even small changes to your nose, when done by an experienced, skilled and artistic rhinoplasty surgeon,  can make a large difference in how you look – as well as how your nose works, and how you feel about your overall appearance. West Bloomfield area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali is committed to working closely with you from start to finish to get the life-changing results that you will be thrilled with.

When planning your rhinoplasty surgery, West Bloomfield area surgeon Dr. Ali can evaluate your other facial features and tell you how any changes to your nose could enhance or affect your overall appearance. He will then work with you to customize a surgical plan that will best meet your appearance goals – for a better, more beautiful version of you!

West Bloomfield Area Rhinoplasty Consultation: 248-335-7200

Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 3)

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Rhinoplasty FAQs (Part 3)

Dr. Azhar Ali is a prominent Oakland County board certified plastic surgeon, with decades of experience and more than a thousand of satisfied patients.

In this third section of a three-part article, Dr. Ali further discusses questions you may have about a rhinoplasty procedure, including what you might expect in terms of recovery.

While this article answers some questions, no doubt you have more. Rhinoplasty is complicated, and the results will be evident for all to see. Therefore, it is important to select a surgeon in whom you have confidence, who will take the time needed to put you at ease, and with whom you feel completely comfortable. If you are in the Macomb or Oakland County area and are considering rhinoplasty, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali to discuss your unique situation.

CLICK HERE FOR PART 2 OF RHINOPLASTY FAQS

What follow-up care can I expect after my rhinoplasty?

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled for you for about a week after the surgery. Dr. Ali will evaluate your nose to ensure that it is healing properly. Assuming everything is as expected, your stitches will be removed at that time.

One of the most important things that we do is to carefully monitor the healing progress of each and every one of our patients. If you have any concerns at all as you recover, we are always available to answer questions.

How soon can I go back to work after my rhinoplasty surgery?

For at least the first week after your procedure, your job is to rest and relax in order to minimize bruising and swelling, and to encourage a speedy healing process. If you have a desk job or something fairly sedentary, you could return to work after the bandages are removed (usually a week after surgery).

However, if your job requires any type of physical exertion, you may need a minimum of two to three additional weeks of recovery. Whatever job you have, you should avoid exercise or physical exertion for at least a month after the procedure. Physical exertion tends to increase swelling, and thus makes the road to full recovery longer.

In terms of planning though, most patients feel comfortable returning to work after one to two weeks. Of course, every case is different, and everyone heals at a different rate. So it’s best to plan on the longer period of time just in case.

How long will it be before my nose is completely normal?

Complete healing takes time, and patience is required. For the most part, your nose will appear to be “normal” after a few weeks. However, it is not uncommon for some swelling to continue up to a year or even longer.

This residual swelling is caused by your body’s natural response to the surgery, and is called edema, where watery fluid collects in the tissues. This generally resolves itself in the first month, and in almost all cases it is resolved in about six months. The good news is, you are likely the only one who will notice the residual swelling should it occur.

One of the most gratifying comments we receive at our Oakland County plastic surgery practice is how much better our patients feel about themselves after rhinoplasty. They report increased self-confidence and enjoy the image they see in the mirror to a much greater extent.

Many report improved breathing function, and even that they sleep better now that their breathing is less constricted. In short, a rhinoplasty can be life changing. If you live in Oakland County or the greater Detroit 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.

Top Rhinoplasty Surgeon – Oakland County

Even small changes to your nose can make a large difference in how your nose looks, how it works, and how you feel about your overall appearance. Oakland County area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali is committed to working closely with you from start to finish to get the results that you will be satisfied with.

When planning your nose job, Dr. Ali can evaluate your other facial features and tell you how any changes to your nose could enhance or affect your overall appearance. He will then work with you to customize a surgical plan that will best meet your appearance goals.

Oakland County Rhinoplasty Consultation: 248-335-7200

 

nose job surgery troy mi

Nose Job Surgery from Start to Finish

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Nose Job Surgery from Start to Finish

Top Troy, MI area board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of men and women get the nose they have always dreamed of with nose job surgery. In this article he explains the nose job (“rhinoplasty”) surgical process from start to finish.

Anesthetic Used for Nose Jobs

Rhinoplasty will be performed under either a local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of your surgery and the preference of your surgeon.

A local anesthesia with sedation is usually used in an outpatient setting. Your doctor injects a pain-numbing medication into your nasal tissues, and sedates you with medication that is injected intravenously. You will be groggy, but may not be fully asleep.

If your surgery is more extensive, Dr. Ali may elect to place you under a general anesthetic. The anesthetic is generally given intravenously, and will affect your entire body. You will be unconscious during the surgery, and may be given a breathing tube.

Types of Nose Job Surgery

Nose jobs can be done in one of two ways: using either an “open” surgical procedure, or a “closed” surgical procedure. Both of these methods involve an incision made inside the nostril.

In addition to the internal incision, the open rhinoplasty approach adds an additional, small incision on the undersurface of the tissue that divides the nostrils. The skin of the nose is then “undraped,” or peeled back to expose the inner structures of the nose. This method allows the surgeon to do major changes to the nose more readily when major reconstruction is necessary. It is usually preferred if your nose has been previously operated on, or if it has a more difficult anatomy. There will be a slight yet permanent scar in an open rhinoplasty.

With closed rhinoplasty, on the other hand, all of the incisions are made inside the nose, which means there are no external cuts and no risk of scarring. The nose is shaped and sculpted through these internal incisions and is therefore only suitable for more subtle changes.

The Nose Job Surgery

During the operation, the surgeon will reshape the inner bone and cartilage to produce the results you and he have discussed. For small changes, he may use cartilage taken from deeper inside your nose or from your ear. For larger changes, cartilage may be taken from a rib or bone from another part of your body.

If the septum (wall) between the nostrils is bent or crooked (deviated), Dr. Ali will also perform the necessary alterations to improve your ability to breathe.

After the desired changes have been made, Dr. Ali places the nose’s skin and tissue back where they belong, and stitches them in place. He will place a splint to your nose for protection and support, and will place internal dressings inside your nose that will remain in place for a few days after the surgery.

After the surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will be monitored carefully until you have fully awakened. Nose jobs surgery is almost always done on an outpatient basis, which means there is no overnight stay.

Top Nose Job Surgery – Troy, MI Area

Even small changes to your nose can make a large difference in how your nose looks, how it works, and how you feel about your overall appearance. Dr. Ali is committed to working closely with you from start to finish to get the results that both of you will be satisfied with.

When planning your nose job, Dr. Ali can evaluate your other facial features and tell you how any changes to your nose could enhance or affect your overall appearance. He will then work with you to customize a surgical plan that will best meet your appearance goals.

Troy, Mi Area Nose Job Surgery Consultation:248-335-7200