Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty)

Alar Base Reduction, or Alarplasty, is a surgical procedure that changes the width and shape of the bottom of the nostrils (the alar base). The procedure is often performed to narrow wide nostrils or reinforce weakened cartilage, in the lower nose which may be causing concerns such as nasal valve collapse.

Surgeons can perform the surgery as a standalone procedure or as part of a comprehensive Rhinoplasty or Septorhinoplasty, depending on your needs and aesthetic goals.

Alarplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia and takes around one to two hours. Surgeons reshape or remove excess tissue using small incisions that are expertly hidden within the natural creases of your nostrils to create a more balanced nasal appearance.

The procedure is ideally suited for people who have concerns affecting the lower section of their nose but do not require full nasal reconstruction. Recovery from the procedure is generally quicker than a full Rhinoplasty, and you can resume your normal activities within a week after the procedure. As a result, an Alarplasty can be a viable solution for achieving a more proportional nasal appearance without undergoing a full Rhinoplasty.

Cadogan Clinic is at the forefront of offering specialised Alarplasty services in London performed by a team of highly skilled surgeons renowned for their expertise in facial surgery. Our dedicated patient care team is committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the procedure, from initial consultation to post-operative care. 

Alar Base Reduction is designed to address a range of functional or medical concerns and can also deliver several aesthetic improvements:

Medical reasons:

• To improve airflow and address breathing difficulties and sleep disorders which can impact health and well-being.
• To strengthen the nasal cartilage in cases where injury or congenital concerns have caused weakness, leading to nasal valve collapse, snoring and sleep apnoea
• To reconstruct the base of the nose, following injury or trauma

Aesthetic reasons:

• To refine nostril width and contour for a more balanced nasal appearance
• To enhance the facial proportions while maintaining natural ethnic or individual characteristics
• To improve confidence in facial balance and profile

There are several reasons people opt for Alar Base Reduction:

• To correct breathing concerns - Breathing difficulties are not only uncomfortable but can have a significant impact on overall health, making participating in physical activities challenging and impacting wellbeing through poor sleep. Alarplasty reinforces the base of the nose, resulting in a stronger nasal structure, allowing consistent airflow
• To enhance medical treatments - Patients who use CPAP devices to treat and manage sleep disorders may find that widened nostrils affect the fit and therefore the efficacy of the mask they wear over their nose and mouth. By narrowing the alar base, the fit can be improved, ensuring the treatment is effective
• To achieve balanced nose proportions - People who are concerned about the width or symmetry of their nostrils may opt for Alarplasty to achieve a more balanced and proportionate facial appearance. Width and asymmetry concerns often stem from trauma or injury to the nose, meaning Alar Base Reduction serves a reconstructive purpose for many patients

Most patients can expect an initial recovery phase following Alarplasty to last between 1 and 2 weeks. You might experience swelling and bruising around the nose during the recovery phase. You might also experience discomfort during recovery which can be managed using over-the-counter pain medication.

You should avoid activities that could potentially impact the nose during the first few weeks to prevent complications and ensure prompt Alarplasty healing. While you may see significant improvements as soon as the swelling subsides, the final results of the surgery may take a few months to become apparent.

You should follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions closely during recovery after an Alarplasty in London.