Alar Base Reduction: Alarplasty Cost London, Nostril Reduction

Cosmetic Surgery
Face & Eyes
Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty)

Medically Reviewed 26th February 2024, by Mr. Bryan Mayou (GMC: 1414396) - founder of the Cadogan Clinic and one of the world's leading plastic surgeons

What is Alar Base Reduction?

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 adjust their proportions in relation to the rest of your nose, enhancing overall aesthetic appeal.

Surgeons can perform the surgery as a standalone procedure, or it might be done as a part of a comprehensive Rhinoplasty, 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 are dissatisfied with the shape of their nostrils 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 cosmetic surgery. Our dedicated patient care team is committed to providing comprehensive support throughout the procedure, from initial consultation to post-operative care.

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How Does Alar Base Reduction Surgery Work?

The alar base reduction surgery involves several techniques, each tailored to address specific concerns regarding the alar region of the nose.

Here are the key techniques involved in Alarplasty.

Alar wedge excision

The procedure involves the removal of a small wedge-shaped piece of tissue from the area where your nostril meets the cheek, known as the alar base. Doing this effectively narrows down the width of the nostril and it is commonly performed in patients with wide or flared nostrils.

This procedure doesn’t interfere with the natural curvature of the nose, creating a more subtle alteration. It also leaves behind little-to-no signs of surgery so patients typically don’t have to deal with excessive scarring during recovery.

Nasal sill excision

This procedure involves a small incision within the nostril where the surgeon can remove tissue from the alar base. This method reduces the chances of scarring during recovery. It’s also commonly carried out with the alar wedge procedure to further enhance symmetrical proportions.

V-Y advancement

This involves making a 'V'-shape incision in the alar region, which is closed in with a 'Y' shape. The procedure allows your cosmetic surgeon to adjust the size and shape of your nostril without needing to remove any tissue.

By selecting appropriate techniques, our surgeons can customise the procedure to meet your unique requirements.

Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty) At a glance

Surgery Time

1 hour

Time off work

2 weeks

Hospital Stay

Day Case

Shower

After 1 day

Reasonable Mobility

After 2 days

Exercise

After 6 weeks

Sexual Activity

4 weeks

Sleeping on back

4 weeks

Full Recovery

6 - 8 weeks

Driving

2 weeks

Words from our clients:

"I was extremely satisfied with the care and treatment I received at the Cadogan Clinic. My surgeon was friendly and informative and explained the procedure fully. My procedure went very well and with the excellent care of the nursing staff, I made a speedy and full recovery. Would recommend to anyone."

Eva Berry

"At the beginning before the operation the nurse taking care of me made me feel so comfortable. The surgeon and anesthetist helped me feel so calm. Fantastic before and after treatment"

Scarlett Elliott

"The girls on the reception at the clinic were very pleasant and professional. The nurse who took out my stitches after my surgery was just lovely and took me through step by step what she was doing and she also recommended a great cream to use to help with healing."

Georgina Nolan

“I was treated with care and provided with thorough knowledge about the procedure I was undertaking. My surgeon was very methodical (a perfectionist) and I felt I received A class treatment."

Courtney O'Sullivan

"Outstanding experience from the first appointment to being discharged. Very professional, friendly and a fantastic outcome."

Gemma Stevenson

"Reception staff very welcoming and efficient. Both nurses who I dealt with were fantastic, and the whole team (anaesthetist, surgeon etc) were friendly but professional, and really put my mind at ease. That I was able to stay later than I perhaps needed after my surgery to fit in with my husbands schedule was greatly appreciated."

Emma Davies

What Does Alarplasty Cost UK?

The cost of an Alarplasty in the UK can greatly vary depending on factors like the complexity of the surgery, ancillary costs, facility fees, and follow-up care.

Cadogan Clinic has collaborated with Chrysalis Finance to offer a variety of payment choices for our patients including:

12 months 0% Interest-free - APR

24 - 60 months at 12.9% APR

Flexible Finance

We invite you to contact our team of friendly patient advisors who can guide you regarding the detailed cost and payment choices we offer.

Get in touch 0207 901 8500

Included in this treatment

Up to two 60 minute consultations with a leading specialist plastic surgeon at our award-winning premises in Chelsea

Your procedure carried out at London’s leading specialist cosmetic surgery centre of excellence

24/7 on call nurse assistance

Dedicated Patient Co-ordinator, as a personal point of contact through your journey with Cadogan

A pre-operative medical assessment to ensure you are fit for surgery

Comprehensive post-operative aftercare courtesy of our specialist cosmetic nurses

What Are the Benefits of Alarplasty Surgery?

Alarplasty offers many functional benefits that extend beyond the aesthetic enhancements. The nostril reduction surgery can significantly impact your appearance and confidence, making it a sought-after choice for those considering making specific changes to their nasal structures.

Alterations to nose shape, including changes to the shape of the nostrils, can make the nose more proportionate compared to the rest of your face. Since the nose is in the middle of the face, it plays a large part in dictating face symmetry.

Wide and flattened nostrils may lead to breathing difficulties, especially during physical exercise. Alarplasty can narrow the nostrils, improve airflow and make breathing easier.

While the procedure's primary purpose is cosmetic, the functional improvement it provides is a valuable aspect of the surgery for people affected by such issues.

Why Do People Have Alarplasty?

People undergo Alarplasty surgery in London to alter the size, shape or symmetry of their nostrils by targeting the alar region, which is the base of the nose. The procedure addresses the concerns with the shape and size of the nostrils rather than the entire nose structure.

Here are a few reasons why people might consider the procedure:

To reduce nose width

People often opt for Alarplasty to achieve a more balanced and proportional facial appearance. The procedure is effective in altering wide or flared nostrils, enhancing the overall proportions of your face. The procedure leads to the nose appearing more refined and aligned with your other facial structures, including the mouth, cheeks, and eyes.

Correcting nostril asymmetry

Nostril asymmetry, whether due to a congenital defect or injury, can cause aesthetic and functional issues. Alarplasty can correct the shape and size of one or both nostrils to achieve symmetry. It not only improves the appearance of your nose but also addresses any breathing difficulties that may arise due to the nostril’s structure.

Why do people have it & Who is suittable

Who is Suitable for Alarplasty Surgery?

Alarplasty is best suited for individuals with specific aesthetic or functional concerns related to their nostrils. Understanding whether you are a good candidate for flared nostril reduction surgery will help you make informed decisions about pursuing this option.

Your surgeon will assess to see if an Alarplasty surgery in London would be suitable for you.

Surgeons will consider the following factors:

Your nostrils are disproportionately wide or flat compared to the other facial features.
You have asymmetric nostrils as a result of a birth defect or accident. Alarplasty can help correct this problem without needing a full nasal reconstruction.
You have difficulty breathing due to the structure of your nostrils.

Consulting with one of our expert surgeons will help you assess your suitability and ensure that the procedure meets your aesthetic or functional requirements.

Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty) Surgeons

We have invited a selection of the country's very best consultants to join us at the Cadogan Clinic so that you can be sure that whatever the nature of your treatment, you will be seeing one of the top practitioners in the country.

Our Surgeons

Mr. Duncan Atherton

Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon

Mr Thomas Jacques

Consultant ENT and Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Mr Mark Solomos

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Mr. Tunc Tiryaki

Consultant Plastic Surgeon

Mr. Paul Tulley

Plastic Surgeon

How Long is Alar Base Reduction Recovery?

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.

The Patient Journey. A breakdown of what you can expect on your journey with us

We are deeply invested in ensuring that every step of your surgical journey with us is as informative and reassuring to you as it can be. This article outlines what you can expect at each stage of the journey

The Patient Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can you combine Alarplasty with other nose procedures?

Yes, Alarplasty can be combined with other nasal procedures like a nose tip Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty to achieve a more comprehensive change in the nasal appearance and function. As a result, Alarplasty before and after results can vary depending on the specifics of the procedure.

Are there non-invasive alar base reduction treatments?

Currently, no non-surgical alternatives to Alar plasty can achieve the same permanent results as an alar base reduction. Most non-invasive methods, like fillers, focus on the nose’s bridge and tip rather than the alar base.

How long does Alarplasty take to heal?

While the healing time after Alar plasty can vary from person to person, you should expect your recovery to last between 1 and 2 weeks. You will notice a marked improvement during this period and should be able to return to normal activities.

Does Alarplasty London Surgery leave scars?

While Alarplasty in London can potentially leave scars, they are typically small and strategically placed in the natural folds of the nostrils to make them appear less conspicuous. Whether the Alarplasty scars will be visible depends on the surgical technique used and how diligently you follow post-operative care guidelines.

Will my breathing change after the Alarplasty London surgery?

The primary goal of Alarplasty is to provide aesthetic improvements. However, in some cases, adjustments to the nostril size or shape might incidentally improve your breathing efficiency. Please discuss with our surgeons if you have any breathing issues during the initial consultations.

Which celebrities have had alar base reduction?

Several celebrities have opted for alar base reduction surgery to enhance the aesthetics of their nose. Some of the most notable ones include Kate Moss, Megan Fox and Madison Beer.

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Founded in 2004 by world renowned plastic surgeon Mr Bryan Mayou, we now work with over 100 leading consultants and successfully treat over 20,000 patients each year. We have been winning industry awards since inception.

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What Are the Risks of Alarplasty?

Like almost all surgical procedures, Alarplasty carries potential risks and complications. Some of the most common risks include:

Infections

Bleeding

Scarring

In some cases, there is a risk of asymmetry, where the nostrils are not perfectly symmetrical post-surgery, and you might need additional corrective procedures.

Another risk is overcorrection or under-correction. Although rare, there can even be changes in nasal airflow that might cause breathing difficulties.

Alar Base Reduction (Alarplasty)