9th Apr 2026
Alar base reduction (also known as alar-plasty) is a surgical procedure to narrow the nostrils, promoting nose symmetry and facial balance. Alar base reduction is a commonly performed under a local anaesthesia. It arises when a person is unhappy with their nostril shape: this could be due to nasal flaring, wide or flared nostrils or nostril asymmetry. Alar base reduction surgery is correct flared nostrils and narrow wide nostrils, helping to improve facial symmetry and enhance overall nasal aesthetics.
At Kensington Medical we specialise in Alar base reduction. Read on to find out about the technique, the benefits, risks, why the experience of a GMC Specialist Registered Plastic surgeon is important and the recovery period required. This will provide you with a comprehensive understanding of nostril reduction surgery and alar reduction.
Introduction to Facial Balance
Facial balance is a cornerstone of aesthetic beauty, and the nose plays a pivotal role in achieving this harmony. Even subtle differences in the width or shape of the nostrils can influence how balanced and attractive the entire face appears. Nostril reduction surgery, also known as alar base reduction surgery, is a surgical procedure specifically designed to refine the width of the nostrils, helping to create a more harmonious relationship between the nose and facial features. By addressing the proportions of the alar base, this procedure can enhance facial balance and contribute to a more pleasing overall appearance.
Alar base reduction surgery can be performed as a standalone procedure for those seeking targeted nostril reduction, or it can be combined with other nasal surgeries, such as rhinoplasty, for comprehensive nasal reshaping. Whether you are looking to correct nostril flaring or simply achieve a more refined nasal contour, this approach offers a tailored solution to support facial harmony and boost confidence in your appearance.
Main Points
-
-
-
The alar base reduction procedure, also known as alarplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that adjusts the shape and size of the nostrils to enhance facial harmony and can also improve nasal airflow for breathing.
-
The surgery involves commonly performed surgical techniques such as alar wedge excision, nasal sill excision, and V-Y advancement to achieve the desired nostril contours and a natural appearance.
-
Pre-surgery preparation, including a detailed consultation, selecting an expert surgeon, and following strict post-operative care are crucial for minimising risks, reducing recovery time, and achieving best results.
-
Alar base reduction is less invasive than traditional rhinoplasty, making it a quicker and simpler option for patients.
-
Alar base reduction is generally less expensive than a full rhinoplasty due to its less invasive nature. The Cost for an alar base reduction or narrowing nostril surgery is £3,300 under local anaesthesia. this includes the all post operative follow ups with our GMC Specialist Registered Plastic Surgeon, London Harley street.
-
-
What is Alar Base Reduction?
Alar base reduction surgery, part of the rhinoplasty procedure group, focuses on the nostrils’ size and shape to achieve a more pleasing nasal appearance. This cosmetic procedure involves strategic alar base resections, effectively narrowing the nasal base and addressing any alar flaring. The procedure specifically targets nasal flare as part of nasal base surgery, reducing the width of the nasal flare and improving facial harmony.
The result? A nose that sits in perfect proportion to your other facial features, enhancing the overall facial balance and aesthetic appeal of your face.
Maintaining the nose's natural curvature during alar base reduction is important for achieving a harmonious and aesthetically pleasing nasal profile.
Whether you're seeking to refine a broad alar base or undergo rhinoplasty in London, Kensington Medical and our team of experienced nose surgeons can help you achieve nostril refinement.
Who is a Good Candidate for Alar Base Reduction?
Alar base reduction surgery is ideal for individuals who are dissatisfied with the width or flare of their nostrils and are seeking a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance. If you have wide or flared nostrils that disrupt the overall symmetry of your nose and facial features, nostril reduction surgery or alar base reduction surgery may be the right solution. Good candidates are generally in good physical and mental health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes, and are committed to following post-operative care instructions to ensure the best possible results.
During your consultation, your surgeon will carefully assess your nasal structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine whether base reduction or other rhinoplasty procedures are most appropriate for your needs. This personalised approach ensures that the chosen nostril reduction technique will enhance your facial balance and address concerns such as flared nostrils or nostril asymmetry. Ultimately, the best candidates are those who seek subtle, natural-looking improvements that bring their nose into better proportion with their other facial features.
Benefits of Nostril Reduction Surgery
-
Aesthetic proportions of the nose and face
-
Functional benefits. By reshaping the nostril wall, it can lead to functional improvement by enhancing nasal airflow and easing breathing difficulties.
-
For those who have experienced previous surgeries or facial trauma, alar base reduction can restore symmetry
To find out if you are suitable for an alar base reduction book a consultation.
Base Reduction and Nostril Contouring
Base reduction and nostril contouring are essential elements of alar base reduction surgery, focusing on sculpting the nasal base , nostril width and nostril shape for a more refined and balanced appearance. This cosmetic procedure involves the careful removal of excess tissue at the base of the nose, which is particularly effective for narrowing wide or flared nostrils. By addressing the underlying structure, the procedure helps to create a more proportionate nasal appearance that enhances overall facial balance.
Typically performed under local anaesthesia, base reduction and nostril contouring offer a less invasive alternative to traditional rhinoplasty, with a focus on targeted improvements rather than extensive reshaping. The goal is to achieve a natural-looking result, where the nostrils blend seamlessly with the rest of the nose and facial features. Through meticulous surgical technique, patients can expect a significant enhancement in the harmony of their facial features, with the nose appearing more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing. This approach ensures that the final outcome supports both the patient’s cosmetic goals and the overall balance of their facial proportions.
Nostril Reshaping Techniques
Nostril reshaping, also known as nostril surgery, is a subtle art that demands precision and an intimate understanding of nose procedures. These nostril reshaping techniques are typically performed by experienced surgeons to achieve optimal results. Nostril reshaping techniques involve small incisions, often placed within natural folds to minimise visible scars. Surgeons employ an array of incisions to achieve nostril reshaping, a type of nose surgery. These incisions include wedge, sill, and Weir excisions, each specific to the individual’s nasal structure. These techniques often involve the removal or reshaping of soft tissue at the nostril base to achieve the desired result. Fine sutures are used to close the incisions, supporting discreet healing and optimal results. It’s a delicate balancing act to achieve the perfect contour without compromising the natural look of the nasal base.
Alar Wedge Excision
Among the techniques at a surgeon’s disposal, alar wedge excision is pivotal for addressing alar flaring and refining the nostril’s silhouette. This method not only trims the alar lobule’s size but also reshapes it, thus rectifying any excessive flare.
The incisions are carefully camouflaged within the natural alar crease, leaving behind a more aesthetically pleasing frontal view of the nose.
Nasal Sill Excision
In cases where the goal is nostril reduction, specifically to reduce the nostril’s width, nasal sill excision is the technique of choice. By making strategic cuts, surgeons can decrease the interalar distance and the size of the nostril sill. This, in turn, minimises the overall nostril size, contributing to a narrower and more refined nasal base that aligns gracefully with the rest of the face.
V-Y Advancement
V-Y advancement offers a tissue-conserving approach to nostril reshaping. Without removing any tissue, this technique involves a V-shaped incision that’s expertly closed into a Y-shape. The result is a subtle yet significant refinement of the nostril’s shape, contributing to a harmonious nasal appearance without the need for extensive tissue removal.
Minimising Scars in Alar Base Reduction
One of the top priorities in alar base reduction surgery is achieving a refined result with minimal visible scarring. Surgeons accomplish this by making precise incisions at the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek, allowing the incision site to blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. The resulting scars are barely noticeable and blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. The careful placement of these incisions, combined with the use of dissolvable sutures, helps to reduce the risk of excessive scarring and supports a smooth healing process.
After your base reduction procedure, your surgeon may recommend the use of silicone gel or sheeting to further soften and flatten any scar tissue that develops. Adhering to post-operative care instructions—such as keeping the incision site clean and avoiding activities that could strain the area—also plays a crucial role in minimising scars. With these strategies, most patients achieve a harmonious nasal appearance with scars that are discreet and fade significantly over time.
Non-Surgical Alternatives
While nostril reduction surgery remains the most effective way to achieve lasting changes in nostril size and shape, some individuals may consider non-surgical alternatives. Non-invasive methods, such as the use of dermal fillers, can offer temporary improvements in nasal contour and help enhance facial balance. These treatments can subtly adjust the appearance of the nose, but they do not provide the same degree of nostril reduction or permanence as surgical procedures.
Non-surgical options may be suitable for those seeking minor refinements or who wish to avoid surgery, but they are generally not recommended for individuals with significant nostril flaring or asymmetry. The results are temporary and require ongoing maintenance to preserve the desired effect. A detailed consultation with an experienced surgeon is essential to determine whether non-invasive methods or nostril reduction surgery is the best approach for your unique needs and aesthetic goals.
Minimising Scars in Alar Base Reduction
One of the top priorities in alar base reduction surgery is achieving a refined result with minimal visible scarring. Surgeons accomplish this by making precise incisions at the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek, allowing the incision site to blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. The resulting scars are barely noticeable and blend seamlessly with the surrounding skin. The careful placement of these incisions, combined with the use of dissolvable sutures, helps to reduce the risk of excessive scarring and supports a smooth healing process.
After your base reduction procedure, your surgeon may recommend the use of silicone gel or sheeting to further soften and flatten any scar tissue that develops. Adhering to post-operative care instructions—such as keeping the incision site clean and avoiding activities that could strain the area—also plays a crucial role in minimising scars. With these strategies, most patients achieve a harmonious nasal appearance with scars that are discreet and fade significantly over time.
Preparing for Your Alar Base Reduction Surgery
Ideal candidates will be in good health and have realistic expectations. Initial consultations are essential for understanding patient goals and planning the procedure to ensure the best results. During your initial and second consultation our GMC specialist registered plastic surgeons will discuss your medical history. Being ready for surgery is key: discussion about blood-thinners, alcohol, and smoking is covered to minimise risks and ensure the best possible recovery and outcome.
The Surgical Procedure
Generally, local anaesthesia with sedation is the chosen method, making the procedure minimally invasive and suitable for day-case procedures. This ensures a pain-free experience during the alar base reduction surgery, or nostril reduction procedure. If the surgeon feels it will be of benefit to the patient, they might suggest a general anaesthetic, although that would usually mean that other rhinoplasty surgery such as dorsal hump removal was taking place. The procedure lasts about an hour. Incisions are discreetly placed, tissue is removed or moved, and the nostrils are meticulously reshaped. When nostril reduction surgery is performed, patients can expect improved nostril symmetry and contour, with typical outcomes including a more balanced nasal appearance. Surgical intervention may involve careful modification of nasal cartilage to achieve the desired nostril shape.
Dissolvable sutures are then applied, concealed within the natural contours of your nose.
Recovery and Post Operative Care
Alar base reduction recovery typically involves mild swelling and bruising around the nose during the initial recovery phase. Following post operative care to achieve a good recovery is important. You can expect some swelling and bruising and this forms part of the initial recovery phase. At Kensington Medical we provide a comprehensive post operative pack to ensure you feel confident before the surgery. This may include information such as avoiding certain foods, keeping the surgical area clean, what you can and can’t do, how to sleep. Most patients can return to normal activities within a week after the procedure, and most report no pain by the end of the first week as any bruising and swelling have either subsided or reduced substantially. You should avoid activities that could potentially impact the nose during the first few weeks to prevent complications and ensure prompt healing. Generally you can expect to resume your normal activities within a couple of weeks.
Being patient is key; you should see a clearer result in a month as the swelling continues to subside. While significant improvements are seen as swelling subsides, the final results of alar base reduction.
Potential Risks and Complications
All surgical procedures carry some level of risk, and alar base reduction, a type of alar base surgery, is no different. Scarring, infection, and possible breathing difficulties are among the potential complications. However, selecting an experienced surgeon significantly reduces these risks, ensuring a safe and successful outcome.
Aftercare also plays a critical role in minimising scarring and ensuring a smooth and speedy recovery.
Before and After Photos
During your Kensington Medical consultation your surgeon will show you before and after photos of alar base reduction surgery, showing improvement in nostril size, nostril shape and facial balance. These images capture the dramatic improvements in facial balance and nostril size, offering a realistic preview of the procedure’s potential.
Book an alarplasty consultation to find out if you are suitable.
The Cost of Alar Base Reduction: Factors and Considerations
At Kensington Medical alar reduction surgery or alar base reduction surgery costs £3,300. This includes all post opewrtive care in London, Harely street. Several factors can influence the nostril reduction price. The surgeon’s expertise, hospital and anaesthetist fees, and the extent of the procedure will affect the price of an alar base reduction.
Our expert nose surgeons will examine your nose and explain how the procedure is carried out. Note the procedure is carried out under a local anaesthesia. This means recovery is relatively fast. They will show you before and after photos of alar base reduction patients. Full rhinoplasty, which involves reshaping the entire nose including the bridge, tip, and nostrils, is generally a more complex and costly procedure than alar base reduction alone.
To find out more about alarplasty or nostril reduction send us your details.
Combining Alar Base Reduction with Other Rhinoplasty Procedures
For those seeking a more comprehensive nose job involving nose reshaping, alar base reduction can be harmoniously combined with other rhinoplasty procedures. Traditional rhinoplasty is a more extensive procedure that typically involves cartilage and bone reshaping, and it can be combined with alar base reduction for optimal results. Whether it’s refining the nasal tip, straightening a dorsal hump or correcting a deviated septum, integrating alarplasty with additional surgeries is possible.
Full sedation and general anaesthesia will be required for a nasal contouring procedure with open or closed rhinoplasty.
Summary
Alar base reduction surgery is a highly successful procedure. With careful planning with your plastic and the Kensington Medical team you are one step closer to facial harmony. If you have any questions please get in touch with us today and we will do out best to assist you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating the decision to undergo alar base reduction surgery comes with many questions. Will the results look natural? How much will it cost? What benefits can I expect? These are all valid queries, and we’re here to provide the answers, ensuring you’re well-informed and confident in your journey towards facial refinement.
Can alar base reduction look natural?
Yes, alar base reduction can look natural when the nostrils are in proportion with the patient's other facial features. The nostril reduction scar will be hidden in the crease of the nose, and the nose will appear smaller and narrower.
What is the recovery time for Alar base reduction?
After alar base reduction surgery, you can resume normal activities the day after the procedure and commence light exercises after 2 weeks, but full recovery can take 1 to 3 months. It's essential to avoid straining the incision site and wait for a few months for complete recovery.
The final refinement of the nasal shape and symmetry becomes fully apparent several months after the procedure as healing completes.
Is alar base reduction painful?
Alar base reduction is not painful. If you have a combined rhinoplasty it made have greater discomfort however appropriate pain relief will be provided after the nose operation. If done by itself, it can be performed under local anesthesia and does not require postoperative pain medication.
What is alar base?
The alar base is a complex three-dimensional shape, with intimate relationships with the medial cheek, nostril, columella, and upper lip. It is typically composed of fibrofatty tissues and can vary in shapes and sizes.
How much is alar base reduction?
The cost of alar base reduction surgery at Kensington Medical £3,300.
Our GMC specialist registered nose surgeons will examine your nose and explain how an alar base procedure is achieved. The procedure is carried out under a local anaesthesia and recovery is relatively fast. Our plastic surgeons will present to you before and after photos of alar base reduction patients.
To find out more about alar base reduction or nostril reduction get in touch here.
Is nostril reduction surgery done with a local anaesthetic?
Nostril reduction surgery is carried out under local anaesthetic and is a successful procedure with minimal risks.
Are there any non invasive methods for nostril reduction?
There are no non-surgical treatments that can create the result from an alar base reduction. Dermal filler can modify the tip of a nose or the nasal bridge to straighten the nose, it can't create smaller nostrils.
Will I have visible scars or excessive scarring following alar base reduction surgery?
Following alarplasty scars are formed. However the careful placement of the scars in the natural contours or folds of the nostrils helps to conceal the scars and should ensure scars are kept to a minimum. At Kensington Medical our nose surgeons have decades of experience and will ensure great surgical outcome.