HOME > Rhinoplasty Center > Alar Reduction
NOSE CENTER
Delicately reducing wide alae Alar Reduction
Flared nostril width is reduced for overall nasal balance and a crisper impression.
Duration
30 min – 1 hour
Anesthesia
Local or sedation
Hospitalization
Same-day discharge
Stitch Removal
5–7 days
Recovery
Daily life in about 3–5 days
ANSWER Alar Reduction
When the alae (nostril wings) are wide, the nose can look large and the center of the face spread out even with a refined tip. ANSWER Plastic Surgery classifies the type of flaring, chooses between reducing outer width and adjusting nostril size, and designs the incision so the scar hides in the alar crease.
When Alar Reduction is needed
If any of the following apply to you, we recommend a specialist consultation.
Alae flared sideways
Wide alar width from the front makes the nose look large
Large nostrils
Big, round nostrils draw attention to the lower nose
Flaring worsens when smiling
The alae spread noticeably wider when you smile
Balance needed after rhinoplasty
After tip surgery, the alae now look comparatively wide
CUSTOM DESIGN
Excision designed by flare type
The excision site and amount differ by type: wide outer width, large nostrils, or a mix. ANSWER measures alar width, nostril size, and symmetry to plan the minimum necessary excision, designing conservatively so the nostrils are never made too small.
- 1Types distinguished: outer-width, nostril, and mixed
- 2Excision amount designed on symmetry measurements
- 3Excision limits respected to protect breathing
ANSWER POINT
Crease-line incision eases scar concerns
In alar surgery, where the scar sits strongly affects satisfaction. ANSWER incises along the natural crease where the ala meets the cheek and finishes with delicate suturing, aiming for a scar that stays hidden in the crease after recovery.
- 1Incision follows the alar crease line
- 2Layered fine suturing for scar care
- 3Post-operative scar ointment and care guidance
ANSWER Alar Reduction: How It's Done
Consultation & Type Diagnosis
Flare type, symmetry, and nostril size are assessed.
Excision Design
The needed excision and incision placement are designed on the crease line.
Excision & Suturing
The planned tissue is excised and both sides sutured delicately for symmetry.
Recovery Care
After stitch removal, scar-care methods are provided and symmetry is checked.
Frequently Asked Questions
QIs the alar reduction scar very visible?
The incision follows the alar crease, so after recovery the scar tends to be inconspicuous. Early redness can occur but fades over months, and we guide you on scar care.
QWill reducing the alae affect my breathing?
Our principle is to plan the excision within a range that does not affect breathing. Excessive reduction can narrow the nostrils, so conservative design comes first.
QCan I have it together with tip surgery?
Yes. Combining it with tip or bridge surgery balances the whole nose at once, and this is often done. We decide after reviewing the overall design.
Ask ANSWER about Alar Reduction
ANSWER Plastic Surgery 02.6959.4881 | Weekdays AM 10:00 - PM 07:00
The content on this page is provided for medical information purposes. Surgical methods and results may vary depending on individual conditions. All surgery carries the possibility of side effects, so please decide only after a thorough consultation with your doctor.