Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty)

Discover the art of refined elegance with our alarplasty procedure – a subtle transformation tailored to harmonise and balance your facial features for a sophisticated look

Alar base reduction, also known as alarplasty or nostril reduction surgery, is specifically designed to adjust the size of the nostrils and the width of the nose.  If you are concerned about flared nostrils or a wide nose, then alarplasty could be suitable. The most desirable new shape is one that has well-proportioned nostrils, which are in harmony with the overall structure of the nose. Rhinoplasty surgery or nose job is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic surgery procedures at Centre for Surgery. A nose job is a broad term that can describe many different types of surgical procedures performed on the nose, including septoplasty or tip rhinoplasty.  Although alarplasty is a less invasive surgical procedure, it has the potential to transform the appearance of the nose significantly by reducing the appearance of nasal flare.

The appearance of the human nose and its aesthetic ideal has often changed throughout history, with desirable nose shapes changing over time based on society’s views and attitudes on beauty. The nose has always occupied a prominent part of the face with a significant influence on facial features and therefore comes as no surprise that the nose is considered one of the most important aspects of facial harmony and beauty. Our expert rhinoplasty surgeons in London have many years of experience performing all types of rhinoplasty surgery, including alar base reduction and alarplasty surgery. Learn more about alarplasty for reducing wide nostrils.

Alarplasty is also known as nostril reduction surgery or alar base reduction and is designed to alter the width and shape of the nostrils. The alae are used to describe the part of the knows where the nostrils take on a rounded appearance and extend laterally onto the cheeks. The optimum aesthetic appearance of the nose has been determined based on carrying out hundreds of measurements on a wide variety of different people’s noses. Most experts agree that the width of the nose should match the width of the area between the eyes which is also equivalent to approximately 1/5 of the width of your face. If the width of the nose extends beyond this, many people may feel their face has reduced facial balance and diminished aesthetic beauty.

Alar base reduction is most commonly requested to alter the size of excessively wide nostrils. The shape of the nostrils can also be surgically altered. The nostrils can be increased or decreased in width, and many functional concerns can be corrected including breathing difficulties and procedure may be combined with a septoplasty or tip rhinoplasty for improvement of nasal airflow obstruction. Alarplasty is a type of rhinoplasty procedure and can be performed on its own or combined with a full rhinoplasty procedure for the correction of many different types of nasal concerns.

Alar base reduction, also known as an alarplasty or nostril reduction, is a type of rhinoplasty surgical procedure designed to reduce the size of the nostrils. The procedure involves the surgical removal of a small wedge-shaped area of skin, which results in smaller and narrower nostrils that are more symmetrical. At Centre for Surgery, we have our own day surgery facilities at 95-97 Baker Street. We do not use ‘third party’ providers and are therefore able to provide the highest standards of care.

The nose is the central feature of the face and therefore has a large contribution to the overall balance of facial harmony. If you are unhappy with all your nose and nostrils look, you may find you are feeling less confident about yourself and with a reduction in emotional well-being. Alar base reduction is a much less invasive procedure compared with a traditional Rhinoplasty. It is very difficult for anyone to notice whether you have had a cosmetic surgery procedure but almost certainly will remark upon how sculpted and contoured your nose looks.

Nostril reduction surgery is ideal for patients who are looking to:

• Narrow the width of their nostrils to better match their overall facial features
• Correcting asymmetry between both nostrils
• Improve breathing through the nose if there is nasal airflow obstruction
• Enhance their facial features
• Improve self-confidence with a possible increase in emotional well-being

Alarplasty, a specialised form of cosmetic surgery performed in London and globally, focuses on refining the nostrils for those seeking to alter the size, shape, or symmetry of this distinct part of their nose. Unlike more comprehensive rhinoplasty procedures that address the nose’s overall structure, alarplasty zeroes in on the alar region—the area where the nostrils form the base of the nose. This targeted approach allows for precise adjustments, resulting in a more harmonious balance with the rest of the facial features.

Achieving a Proportional Facial Appearance

One of the primary motivations for undergoing alarplasty is the desire to narrow the width of the nose. Many individuals find that their wide or flared nostrils detract from the overall balance of their facial features. Alarplasty offers a solution by carefully reshaping the nostrils, which can make the nose appear more refined and in better proportion with the mouth, cheeks, and eyes. This subtle yet impactful adjustment can enhance the facial aesthetic, bringing a sense of proportion and balance that many desire.

Correcting Nostril Asymmetry for Aesthetic and Functional Improvement

Another significant reason for choosing alarplasty is to correct asymmetry in the nostrils. Whether the unevenness is due to congenital reasons, the result of an injury, or other factors, asymmetrical nostrils can affect both the appearance and function of the nose. Alarplasty provides a tailored solution, enabling surgeons to adjust the shape and size of one or both nostrils to achieve a more symmetrical look. Beyond its cosmetic benefits, the procedure can also improve breathing issues that might be caused by structural irregularities in the nostrils, thereby enhancing both the form and function of the nose.

For patients who feel their nostrils have an excessively wide or flared appearance or are concerned about the size of their nostrils, then the nostril reduction procedure can be highly effective.

The alar region of the nose refers to the area that joins the face to the nostrils. They have a wide variety of appearances and can appear shorter or taller, thinner or thicker, which is dependent on one’s natural facial shape. The nostril reduction procedure focuses on removing a small wedge from the alar region which helps to reduce the broad appearance of the nose. Many patients may have already had a previous rhinoplasty procedure and wish to fine-tune the results even further.

Alar base reduction is a quick procedure to carry out that can transform your facial features instantly. The type of nostril-trimming technique chosen by your surgeon will depend on the shape of your nostrils and your goals for treatment. Alarplasty surgery is easily carried out under a local anaesthetic as the procedure is less invasive compared with a full rhinoplasty procedure. As with all procedures at the Centre for Surgery, nostril reduction is a day-case procedure, which means you will be admitted and discharged on the same day, which allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

If you choose to have a general anaesthetic, you should ensure you have a responsible adult to collect you after the procedure is complete and look after you for at least the first 24 hours after your procedure. In most cases, a general anaesthetic is not required if the procedure is not combined with an open rhinoplasty.

Here, we delve into the methods used at our clinic, each tailored to meet specific needs and ensure natural-looking results.

Alar Wedge Excision

The Alar Wedge Excision, sometimes known as the Modified Weir Incision, is a highly favoured approach for addressing pronounced alar flaring. This technique involves a carefully placed incision along the natural contour where the nose blends into the cheek. Through this incision, a precise amount of tissue is excised from the alar in a wedge shape, effectively reducing the width of the nostrils.

One of the key benefits of this method is its ability to maintain the nose’s natural curvature, avoiding an overly straightened appearance that could detract from its natural beauty. Moreover, when executed with skill, this technique allows for healing that conceals any evidence of surgical intervention, leaving behind a more aesthetically pleasing nasal silhouette. It’s not uncommon for this procedure to be combined with a nasal sill excision for comprehensive results.

Nasal Sill Excision

The Nasal Sill Excision technique comes into play particularly when there’s a need to refine a wide alar base alongside a pronounced nasal sill. Through an incision made within the nostril, the surgeon removes a portion of the alar base tissue. This internal approach not only achieves a narrowing of the nostrils but also minimizes visible scarring post-operation, making it a discreet yet effective option for many.

Frequently, this technique is performed in tandem with the alar wedge excision and may include V-Y advancement to optimize the reshaping process.

V-Y Advancement

Beyond the wedge and sill excision techniques, the V-Y advancement offers another avenue for our surgeons to customize the alarplasty procedure. This method involves an additional incision made at the lateral edge of the previously mentioned wedge incision. The strategic placement and nature of this incision allow for further refinement of the nostril’s shape, contributing to a more tailored and harmonious nasal appearance.

The surgical site is then covered with a sterile dressing. The post-operative nursing team will monitor you until you are medically fit for discharge. A prescription for post-operative antibiotics and painkillers will be given to you by your surgeon. You will see one of our post-operative nursing team in one week for a wound check.

Nostril reduction surgery is most commonly performed under local anaesthesia or under a general anaesthetic if combined with a full rhinoplasty. Alarplasty takes approximately one hour to carry out, and you will be allowed to go home soon after your procedure once the post-operative instructions have been explained to you. It is normal to experience mild bruising and swelling in the first few days after alar reduction surgery. Any pain or discomfort should be minimal and easily controlled with over-the-counter painkillers. Bruising and swelling will start to settle down after five or six days. It is normal to experience minor oozing from the incision sites, and this will resolve completely after 48 to 72 hours. You’ll be reviewed in one week by one of our post-operative nurses stitches will be removed, and the incision site will be inspected to make sure everything is healing properly. Most patients report no pain by the end of the first week, and any bruising and swelling has either gone or reduced substantially by the end of the first week.

Unlike rhinoplasty surgery, alar base reduction does not involve surgical alteration to the nasal bone, which helps to significantly reduce any potential bruising, swelling or discomfort, as well as ensuring a much quicker recovery. The average recovery time after alar base reduction is approximately two weeks, with most patients returning to their normal activities by the one-week stage. Compared with other parts of the face, the nose is more prone to developing prolonged swelling due to its highly vascular nature. Any persistent swelling usually takes between three and six months to fully resolve. The scars after nostril reduction surgery are barely noticeable due to their location within the nasal skin folds, even straight after the alar base surgery. Our post-operative nursing team will be able to advise you on optimal scar management strategies to make sure your scars completely fade with time.

What should you not do after Alarplasty?

Alarplasty, or alar base reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce the size of the nostrils. Proper postoperative care is essential to ensure a successful recovery and minimize the risk of complications. Here are some things that you should not do after alarplasty:

1. Touch or pick at the surgical site:
2. It is important to avoid touching or picking at the surgical site after alarplasty to reduce the risk of infection and scarring.
3. Engage in strenuous activities:
4. Strenuous activities such as exercise, heavy lifting, or any activity that increases blood pressure can increase the risk of bleeding and impact the healing process. It is best to avoid any strenuous activities for at least two weeks after the surgery.
5. Wear glasses or sunglasses:
6. Wearing glasses or sunglasses that rest on the nose can put pressure on the surgical site and impact the healing process. It is best to avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses for at least two weeks after the surgery or until the surgeon gives clearance.
7. Smoke or use tobacco products:
8. Smoking and tobacco products can impair the body’s natural healing process, increase the risk of infection, and impact the healing of the surgical site. It is best to avoid smoking or using tobacco products for at least two weeks after the surgery.
9. Expose the surgical site to direct sunlight:
10. Exposing the surgical site to direct sunlight can increase the risk of scarring and hyperpigmentation. It is best to avoid exposing the surgical site to direct sunlight for at least six weeks after the surgery or until the surgeon gives clearance.
11. Miss postoperative appointments:
12. Postoperative appointments are essential to ensure a successful recovery and address any concerns or complications that may arise. It is crucial to attend all postoperative appointments as scheduled by the surgeon

When will I start to see alarplasty results?

Having your nostril reduction surgery carried out by an expert rhinoplasty surgeon means your healing and recovery will be rapid. This means your results will be noticeable after only one week. The vast majority of any bruising and swelling will be fully resolved after one week. Most patients can then begin to enjoy the results of the alar base reduction procedure with a significant boost in self-confidence.

After two weeks, most of our patients have enough confidence to take photos of themselves, including selfies. We hope you will be looking forward to the positive remarks others will give you once you are healed from the surgery. Although approximately 3 to 6 months are needed for all swelling to resolve, most patients find they have no more swelling after only one month from their nostril reduction surgery.

Alar base reduction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that aims to reduce the size of the nostrils. Like any surgery, scarring is a natural part of the healing process. However, there are several ways to minimise scarring after alar base reduction surgery. Here are some tips to consider:

1. Follow postoperative instructions:
2. Following the surgeon’s postoperative instructions is crucial to minimise scarring. This includes keeping the surgical site clean and dry, avoiding touching or picking at the incision area, and applying prescribed ointments or creams to aid in the healing process.
3. Avoid smoking:
4. Smoking can hinder the body’s natural healing process, and it can increase the risk of scarring. Avoid smoking or using any tobacco products for at least two weeks before and after the surgery.
5. Keep the incision site protected:
6. Protecting the incision site is crucial to prevent any injuries or trauma to the area, which can increase the risk of scarring. You may be advised to avoid activities that can cause any damage to the surgical site, such as vigorous exercise, for a few weeks.
7. Massage the incision site:
8. Massaging the incision site can help to break up any scar tissue that may have formed and reduce the appearance of scarring. Your surgeon may recommend certain massage techniques to help speed up the healing process.
9. Use silicone sheets:
10. Silicone sheets are adhesive sheets that can be placed over the incision site to help reduce scarring. These sheets are designed to help keep the area moisturised and protect it from bacteria and other harmful elements.
11. Consider laser treatments:
12. Laser treatments, such as IPL or PDL, can be used to reduce the appearance of scars after alar base reduction surgery. These treatments can help to stimulate collagen production and reduce the visibility of scars.

Alar base reduction is a commonly carried out procedure at Centre for Surgery and when performed by an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, the risk of complications is minimal. Complications however can potentially occur with any surgical procedure, nostril reduction surgery is no different. There are many factors that will influence healing such as the thickness of the skin, smoking status and a number of other factors.

At the consultation, your surgeon will always take time to fully discuss the risks and complications associated with alar base reduction. By choosing Centre for Surgery for your alarplasty procedure, you can be confident in having highly experienced and expert rhinoplasty surgeons to perform your procedure and manage your aftercare.

Risks of alar base reduction include (but are not limited to):

• Surgical site infection
• Asymmetry
• Excessive scarring

When considering any type of cosmetic surgery, only consult with a fully qualified consultant plastic surgeon who is a specialist in all types of rhinoplasty surgery including alar base reduction. This will help to reduce the risk of complications significantly.

Does alarplasty affect breathing?

Alarplasty, or alar base reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce the size of the nostrils. While the surgery is primarily cosmetic, it can have an impact on the patient’s breathing in some cases. Here are some factors to consider regarding the effect of alarplasty on breathing:

Type of Surgery

The type of alarplasty surgery performed can impact breathing. If the surgery is limited to the nostril rims, the impact on breathing is usually minimal. However, if the surgery involves the removal of the nasal cartilage or if it affects the nasal valve, it may impact breathing.

Surgeon’s Experience

The skill and experience of the surgeon performing the procedure can also impact the patient’s breathing. A skilled surgeon will take care to preserve the natural function of the nose and avoid any damage to the internal structures that can impact breathing.

Prior Breathing Issues

If a patient has pre-existing breathing issues, such as a deviated septum, turbinate hypertrophy, or chronic sinusitis, alarplasty surgery can exacerbate these problems and impact breathing.

Postoperative Care

Proper postoperative care is crucial to minimise the impact of alarplasty on breathing. Patients should follow the surgeon’s instructions closely, avoid strenuous activities, and keep the surgical site clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.

Alar base reduction is also known as alarplasty or nostril reduction and is a type of rhinoplasty surgery. The total cost of surgery will depend on a number of factors, and an accurate costing will be given after your consultation with one of our surgeons.

What is included in my treatment package?

• As many preoperative consultations with your surgeon as you like to make sure the procedure is right for you
• Treatment at a specialist day surgery facility recently rated ‘Good’ by the CQC
• Enhanced same-day discharge with the added benefits of recovering in your own home
• 24/7 clinical support from your surgeon for the first 48 hours and our expert postoperative support team
• Your very own dedicated patient coordinator
• In-depth preoperative medical assessment to make sure you are fully fit for the nostril reduction procedure
• Exceptionally high standards of postoperative care described as ‘outstanding’ by the CQC with regular telephone and face-to-face checks by our expert postoperative support team

Alarplasty, or alar base reduction surgery, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to reduce the size of the nostrils. Many celebrities have undergone this procedure to improve the appearance of their nose. Here are some notable examples:

Kim Kardashian

Kim Kardashian is known for her curvy figure, flawless makeup, and unique fashion sense. She has also been open about undergoing several cosmetic procedures, including alarplasty, to enhance her appearance.

Bella Hadid

Bella Hadid is a well-known fashion model who has undergone alarplasty to refine the appearance of her nose. She has been vocal about the procedure and how it has helped to boost her confidence and self-esteem.

Megan Fox

Megan Fox is a famous actress who has undergone several cosmetic procedures, including alarplasty, to enhance her appearance. She has been vocal about her decision to have the procedure and how it has helped to improve the overall balance and proportion of her face.

Our highly experienced surgeons at Centre for Surgery have established a reputation in London for their ability to achieve optimal results using the latest and most innovative surgical techniques.

We take pride in the exceptional level of care and attention provided to all our patients, starting from the initial consultation.

Join the thousands of satisfied patients by scheduling a consultation with Centre for Surgery at your earliest convenience.

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