Got a ‘Dragon Nose’ with Excessive Nostril Exposure? Correct It with Alar Rim Lowering!

You may have heard the term ‘dragon nose’ when referring to certain nose shapes!

A dragon nose is often considered unfavorable in physiognomy and can also look less refined from an aesthetic standpoint.

To improve this, many people seek dragon nose correction. Today, I will share some helpful information for those looking into this procedure :)

What is Alar Rim Lowering?

Before explaining the procedure, let me clarify what a dragon nose is!

A dragon nose refers to a shape where the sides of the nostrils (alar rims) are pulled upward or notched, causing the nostrils to be excessively visible from the front.

The surgical method used to correct this shape is called Alar Rim Lowering.

How is Alar Rim Lowering Performed?

If the alar cartilage is large enough, the issue can be corrected by repositioning the cartilage to its normal location.

If there is insufficient alar cartilage, improvement is possible by grafting other cartilage.

Similar to standard rhinoplasty, it can be performed as an ‘open’ procedure by incising the columella, or as a ‘closed’ procedure where incisions are made only inside the nostrils.

Who Needs Alar Rim Lowering?

This procedure is suitable for those with a ‘pinched’ nose appearance or those experiencing nostril asymmetry after a previous surgery.

Before proceeding, it is crucial to determine the cause of the pinched nose.

If the cartilage was tied too tightly, correction involves releasing the tied area. However, if the nostrils are severely pinched or exposed to the point where releasing them is not enough, a cartilage and skin graft is used for correction.

The Director’s Unique Know-How for Alar Rim Lowering

In severe cases of dragon nose, I perform the procedure by grafting both skin and ear cartilage together.

This is known as a composite tissue graft, a method where the harvested cartilage and skin are inserted into the inner side of the nostril.

Furthermore, my personal know-how lies in accurately determining exactly how much to lower the rim before surgery and designing the descent only as much as necessary.

Actually, many patients are currently visiting for consultations and undergoing Alar Rim Lowering surgery.

If you are concerned about a dragon nose, I hope you visit Vibe Plastic Surgery for a consultation and diagnosis.

That concludes today’s post. For more detailed information, please watch the Vibe TV video attached at the top :)