How to Narrow a Wide Nose: 3 Options to Consider

Some people embrace the character of a broader nose, while others prefer a slimmer appearance.

If you want to reduce the look of a wide nose, there are several approaches to weigh. These range from permanent surgical alteration to temporary sculpting with cosmetics.

Keep reading to discover more about each choice.

1. Rhinoplasty to slim a wide nose

Rhinoplasty is the clinical term for a “nose job.” It can be performed to:

• align a crooked nose
• adjust the nose’s angle
• make the nose appear narrower

Rhinoplasty can also address medical issues. For example, it may be recommended for breathing difficulties or recurrent nosebleeds.

Before the surgery

Prior to rhinoplasty, you’ll consult with your surgeon to outline the result you want. Bringing photos of noses you like is helpful.

The surgeon will also explain how to prepare. In the weeks leading up to surgery, avoid:

• ibuprofen and other blood-thinning drugs
• tobacco use
• alcohol

During the surgery

During the operation you’ll receive anesthesia. Depending on the type used, you may remain awake but numb or be fully asleep.

To narrow the nasal bridge (the area above the nostrils), the surgeon typically performs an osteotomy — fracturing and reshaping the bone.

To reduce the width of the nostrils, the surgeon removes tissue via small incisions that should be inconspicuous after healing.

After the surgery

Following the procedure, you might need to stay overnight in the hospital, depending on how involved the surgery was.

If you go home the same day, arrange for someone else to drive you.

You’ll usually keep a nasal splint or bandage in place for about a week. Elevating your head helps minimize swelling.

Your surgeon will provide specific restrictions, but generally avoid:

• strenuous exercise
• swimming
• blowing your nose
• touching or moving the nose
• flying

Rhinoplasty cost

If your rhinoplasty is purely cosmetic to narrow the nose, insurance typically won’t cover it.

Cosmetic nose jobs commonly cost about $5400.

2. Nonsurgical (liquid) rhinoplasty to alter a wide nose

A nonsurgical rhinoplasty, often called a “liquid rhinoplasty,” uses injectable fillers — most commonly hyaluronic acid — to reshape the nose.

Liquid rhinoplasty works best for refining contours. Because it adds volume rather than removing it, it’s not ideal for truly narrowing a wide nose. It’s more suited to smoothing bumps or enhancing the tip.

Before the procedure

Discuss preparation steps with your provider before a liquid rhinoplasty.

During the procedure

This is an outpatient treatment, usually performed with topical numbing rather than general anesthesia.

The treatment is fairly quick, often under 45 minutes. You may sense pressure or mild stinging, but it should not be intensely painful.

After the procedure

Afterwards you can typically drive home. Your clinician will give instructions for care and precautions to follow.

Cost of a liquid rhinoplasty

Results from a nonsurgical rhinoplasty are temporary. The procedure commonly ranges from $600 to $1500.

Because it is cosmetic, insurance usually won’t pay for it.

3. Makeup contouring to visually narrow a wide nose

One of the simplest and fastest strategies to make a wide nose seem narrower is contouring with makeup. This isn’t permanent, but it’s effective and budget-friendly.

There are many useful YouTube tutorials on contouring that demonstrate how to create the illusion of a slimmer nose using cosmetic techniques.

Basic step-by-step guidance:

1. Choose a bronzer or contour powder about two shades darker than your natural skin tone.
2. With a narrow, clean brush or your finger, draw two thin vertical lines down each side of your nose, aligning with the outer edges of the nostrils.
3. Apply a matte highlighter between those darker lines to emphasize the narrower center of the nose.
4. Blend everything with a sponge or brush so no harsh lines remain.

For those considering surgical change, you may also want to read about alarplasty, a procedure that specifically targets nostril width.

Key takeaways

There’s nothing inherently wrong with a wide nose, although some people prefer a narrower look.

If you want to change its appearance, options range from the expensive, permanent rhinoplasty to affordable, temporary makeup contouring.

If you’re thinking about surgical or nonsurgical rhinoplasty, consult a qualified clinician to explore your choices and determine what’s right for you.