Alar Base Reduction London - Nostril Reduction Surgery UK
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.
What is Alarplasty (Alar Base Reduction)?
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 narrow nostrils which 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.
Alar base reduction Before & After
Why do people have alarplasty?
Wide nostrils can lead to distortion of facial features when they are out of proportion to the rest of the nose which means that other areas like the cheek, mouth or eyes may lose prominence. When the nose is viewed from below, the nose base takes on a triangular shape. The ideal shape of the nostrils should involve a gentle outward curvature between the tip of the nose and the alar crease which is where the alae join with the cheeks. If there is an excessive outward curvature, the overall facial aesthetic balance can be disrupted and this may be a cause of concern for many people with excessively wide nostrils.
Alar base reduction for wide nostrils is commonly requested by people from certain ethnic backgrounds. If you feel your nostrils are too wide and are having an adverse impact on your facial appearance and self-confidence, you may be an ideal candidate for nostril reduction or alarplasty surgery.
What are the benefits of alar base reduction?
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
Am I suitable for nostril reduction surgery?
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 or 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.
You will initially be reviewed by a fully qualified consultant plastic surgeon experienced in rhinoplasty & nose job surgery. Our lead surgeons are specialist rhinoplasty surgeons and hold or have previously held NHS consultant appointments and where they regularly perform complex reconstructive surgery. This way you have the opportunity to discuss directly with the surgeon who will perform your alarplasty operation (if you go ahead) your ideas, concerns and expectations about the nostril reduction procedure. The surgeon may also inform you of the risks which may occur if you choose to travel abroad for your alar base reduction.
As part of the consultation, the surgeon will:
- Take a full history and examine you;
- Explain what the alarplasty surgery involves; and
- Will offer his/her professional opinion of what can/cannot be done to achieve the ideal aesthetic outcome
What does alar base reduction involve?
Alar base reduction is quick procedure to carry out with the ability to 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 Centre for Surgery, nostril reduction is a day case procedure which means 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.
Your surgeon will first carefully mark the area with a marker pen. These markings form the basis for the area of skin that will be removed as part of the nostril reduction procedure. Local anaesthetic is then injected into the areas which are surgically marked. After a sterile prep and drape of the area, your surgeon will carefully place incisions in the area of the surgical markings to remove the wedge of tissue. The Surgeon will usually make the incision in the alar crease to minimise any possible scarring after alarplasty as the incision will be concealed in your natural skin folds. After the wedge of soft tissue has been removed at the alar base, the surgeon will perform fine cautery to seal any small blood vessels and minimise postoperative bruising. Final adjustments are often made to your nostril shape prior to re-attaching the nostrils back to their base followed by closure with dissolvable stitches.
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 at one week for a wound check.
Alar base reduction recovery
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 at one week by one of our post-operative nurses and 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:
- Touch or pick at the surgical site:
- It is important to avoid touching or picking at the surgical site after alarplasty to reduce the risk of infection and scarring.
- Engage in strenuous activities:
- 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.
- Wear glasses or sunglasses:
- 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.
- Smoke or use tobacco products:
- 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.
- Expose the surgical site to direct sunlight:
- 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.
- Miss postoperative appointments:
- 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 and this means your results will be noticeable after only one week. The vast bulk 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 start taking 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, the vast majority of patients find they have no more swelling after only one month from their nostril reduction surgery.
Minimising Scars After Alar base reduction
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:
- Follow postoperative instructions:
- 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.
- Avoid smoking:
- 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.
- Keep the incision site protected:
- 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.
- Massage the incision site:
- 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.
- Use silicone sheets:
- 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 moisturized and protect it from bacteria and other harmful elements.
- Consider laser treatments:
- 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.
Risk and complications of alarplasty
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, it is important to 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 cost London - How much does Alarplasty Surgery cost in London UK?
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.
Is Alarplasty cheaper than rhinoplasty?
Alarplasty is generally less expensive than a full rhinoplasty, but the exact cost will depend on several factors such as the geographic location of the surgeon, the surgeon’s level of expertise, the extent of the procedure, and the type of anaesthesia used.
Alarplasty is a relatively simple surgical procedure that focuses specifically on reshaping the nostrils, whereas rhinoplasty is a more extensive surgery that involves reshaping the entire nose, including the bridge, tip, and nostrils.
Because of the complexity and the level of skill required to perform a full rhinoplasty, the cost is usually higher than alarplasty. A full rhinoplasty typically involves more extensive incisions, cartilage manipulation, and bone reshaping, which can increase the overall cost of the procedure.
The cost of a surgical procedure should not be the only factor in your decision-making process. It is essential to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon who can provide you with safe and effective results. Be sure to discuss your goals and expectations with your surgeon during the consultation to determine the best approach for your individual needs and budget.
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
Which Celebrities Have Had Alarplasty?
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.
- Jihyo of Twice: Jihyo is a popular K-pop singer and dancer who has undergone an alarplasty to improve the appearance of her nose. She has been open about her decision to have the procedure and how it has helped to boost her self-esteem and confidence.
- 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.
- Taeyeon of Girls’ Generation: Taeyeon is a popular K-pop singer who has undergone alarplasty to refine the appearance of her nose. She has been open about her decision to have the procedure and how it has helped to improve her self-esteem and confidence.
In conclusion, alarplasty is a popular cosmetic procedure among celebrities who seek to enhance the appearance of their nose. Many of them have been vocal about their decision to have the procedure and how it has helped to improve their confidence and self-esteem. It is essential to consult with a qualified surgeon and understand the risks and benefits of the procedure before making a decision.
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FAQs
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Can my nostrils be made smaller?It is possible to make your nostrils smaller through surgical procedures such as alarplasty or nostril reduction surgery. These procedures are typically performed by a skilled plastic surgeon and involve reshaping the nostrils to reduce their size or width.
Alarplasty is a surgical procedure that involves reducing the size of the nostrils by removing a small amount of tissue from the base of the nose. This procedure can be performed under local anesthesia and has a relatively short recovery time.
Nostril reduction surgery, on the other hand, involves making an incision at the base of the nostrils and removing a wedge of tissue to narrow the nostrils. This procedure can also be performed under local anesthesia and typically has a short recovery time.
The specific technique used to make your nostrils smaller will depend on your individual needs and the expertise of your surgeon. During your consultation, your surgeon will discuss your goals for the procedure and recommend the best approach to achieve the desired results. -
What is Alarplasty?Alarplasty, also known as nostril reshaping, is a surgical procedure that alters the shape and size of the nostrils to improve the overall appearance of the nose. This procedure can be performed for cosmetic and functional reasons, and there are several benefits associated with alarplasty.
One of the main benefits of alarplasty is that it can help to improve the symmetry of the nose. Many people have asymmetrical nostrils, which can be caused by several factors, including injury, genetics, or previous surgical procedures. Alarplasty can help to correct this asymmetry and create a more balanced and harmonious look for the nose.
Another benefit of alarplasty is that it can help to improve breathing problems. Some people have nostrils that are too narrow, which can make it difficult to breathe through the nose. Alarplasty can help to widen the nostrils, which can improve breathing and make it easier to breathe through the nose.
Alarplasty can also help to improve the overall appearance of the nose. Many people are unhappy with the shape or size of their nostrils, and alarplasty can help to reshape and resize the nostrils to create a more aesthetically pleasing look. This can help to boost self-confidence and self-esteem and can also help to improve overall facial harmony.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, and the recovery time is relatively short. Most patients can return to work and other normal activities within a week or two after the procedure.
Alarplasty is a safe and effective procedure that can help to improve the symmetry, breathing, and overall appearance of the nose. If you're considering alarplasty, it's important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who can help you to determine if the procedure is right for you and help you to achieve the best possible results.
In summary, Alarplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the shape and size of the nostrils to improve the overall appearance of the nose. It can help to improve symmetry, breathing, and overall appearance of the nose, boost self-confidence and self-esteem, and improve overall facial harmony. It's a safe and effective procedure with a short recovery time. It is important to consult with a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to determine if the procedure is right for you and help you to achieve the best possible results. -
What are the benefits of alar base reduction?Alar base reduction is a highly effective procedure for addressing:
- Size of the nose - with a reduction in the size of the nostrils, the lower part of the nose appears more narrow and smaller
- The shape of the nose - by removing soft tissue at the alar base, the nose takes on a more narrow shape
- Disorders of breathing - when alar base reduction is combined with a septorhinoplasty then the procedure can address both the size, symmetry and projection of the nostrils -
Will alarplasty make a difference to my nose?Alarplasty, also known as alar base reduction, can indeed make a significant difference in the appearance of your nose. This procedure is specifically designed to address the width and shape of the nostrils by removing a small amount of tissue at the base of the nose where the nostrils meet the face.
The goal of alarplasty is to create a more balanced and harmonious appearance by narrowing the nostrils and refining their shape. This procedure can be particularly beneficial for those who feel that their nostrils are too wide, flared, or otherwise disproportionate to the rest of their facial features.
While alarplasty can make a noticeable difference, it's essential to have realistic expectations about the results. The procedure will primarily address the size and shape of your nostrils, but it won't significantly change the overall structure of your nose. If you have concerns about other aspects of your nose, such as the nasal bridge or tip, you may need to consider a full rhinoplasty or a combination of procedures to achieve the desired results. -
At what age can I have alarplasty?Alar base reduction or alarplasty is one of our most popular types of rhinoplasty procedures. The nose does not undergo full maturity until after puberty and this is at least 16 years of age in most people. You must be at least 18 years of age before having a consultation for nostril reduction surgery at Centre for Surgery in London.
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Is alar base reduction worth it?Patients who are unhappy with how their nostrils look are often keen to learn more about the benefits of having a nostril trimming procedure. The benefits include a significant improvement in facial appearance and emotional well-being. Although alar reduction surgery is considered minor surgery, the effects it can produce can lead to a significant boost in your confidence and general outlook on life.
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What type of anaesthesia is used for alar base reduction?Alar base reduction is easily carried out under local anaesthetic as a day case at our state of the art surgical facility at 95-97 Baker Street.
If you choose to have nostril correction with a rhinoplasty procedure, your surgeon will perform the procedure under general anaesthetic for your complete comfort. You will still be able to go home the same day once you are medically cleared for discharge. -
What is recovery like after alarplasty?Unlike a full rhinoplasty procedure, the recovery time for alarplasty is much quicker with less risk of post-operative complications. Although the area will be swollen initially, this will settle down after 7 to 10 days. The non-dissolvable sutures will be removed seven days after the procedure. Final results can be expected between 2 to 3 months after the nostril reduction procedure.
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Is alar base reduction permanent?Nostril reduction surgery results in permanent changes although the results may change slightly over time due to the natural ageing process. This is why it is important to choose a specialist rhinoplasty surgeon to perform your alarplasty procedure.
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Can nostril reduction surgery be reversed?Alar base reduction produces permanent results and cannot be reversed. If you are unhappy with the appearance of your alar base reduction performed elsewhere, revision surgery may be considered to correct the appearance. It is important to bear in mind that revision surgery has a higher risk of causing abnormalities in the shape of the nostrils combined with a higher risk of excessive scarring developing.