The short answer to this question is yes. However, it merits a very significant qualification. The overall architecture of the nose has particular relationships, although they exist within a range. Those relationships are measured in millimeters during the preoperative consultation. For the nose to look best, there must be a clear understanding of the significance of these relationships.  The alar base or the width of the entire base of the nose is essential to understanding these relationships.

Generally, speaking with the nose, as measured by the sum of its nostrils, should equal, or approximate the intercanthal distance. This is the distance between the corners of each eye.  Also, the long axis of the nostril in certain ethnic noses should be oblique with each axis intersecting in the midline at about 45°.

In certain ethnic noses the nostrils are around and with base reduction, this shape can be improved to be oval as it should be. There are several different techniques for base reduction or nostril narrowing. I prefer the method that does not transect the base of the nostril itself to eliminate the possibility of notching.

Rhinoplasty

A pie wedge-type technique, using a caliper to measure and trying to equilibrate to the other side is most beneficial in my opinion. This technique gives the surgeon the opportunity to reshape the nostril, and as best possible to match it with the inter-cancell distance thus establishing one of the essential elements of the nasal architecture.

In my opinion, this bass reduction is best done in conjunction with the overall RHINOPLASTY, to achieve the most elegant result.  However, it can’t be done on its own if desired, provided the patient understands this may not achieve the best result.

Altering the base without addressing all the other elements of the nasal architecture is not in my opinion recommended.

THOMAS TREVISANI, MD

BOARD-CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON

MEMBER OF THE AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY