Alar Base Reduction

Alar base reduction is a targeted nasal surgery that decreases the horizontal width of the nostrils and softens the appearance of a wide or flaring nose. The operation typically removes a small crescent or wedge of skin and soft tissue where the nostril meets the cheek, then repositions and sutures the remaining tissue so scars fall along natural creases; it can be done as a standalone procedure or as part of a broader rhinoplasty to achieve balanced nasal proportions.

The surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia depending on the extent and whether it accompanies other nasal work. Recovery involves some swelling and bruising for a few days, stitches that are removed within a week or so, and gradual improvement over several weeks; risks include scarring, asymmetry, overcorrection or undercorrection, and potential effects on nasal airflow, so careful preoperative planning and realistic expectations are important.