Am I Good Candidate for Alar Base Reduction? (photo)

Question

Hello Everyone, I'm having an alar base reduction operation this November. I have to admit I am quite nervous about the outcome. After initial consultation with the surgeon, he told me that I have to undergo alarplasty. My question is, given the condition of my nose, can alar base reduction as a stand alone procedure yield quite promising results? I'm also aware that since I have thick sebaceous glands, the tip may not be refined. Thank you for reading my letter I hope to hear from you. Clement

Charles S. Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

The biggest problem with alar reduction is that is that it is irreversible. It also tends to be needed in patients who have thicker skin and don't heal well. I agree with you and your surgeon that you could benefit from this procedure. You need an element of narrowing and also a reduction in the flare (roundness of the nostril) - this is a more difficult combination than if you were to need only one of the two.

David W. Kim, MD · Answer

Alar base reduction alone with make your nose look somehwat less prominant.  The light reflections of the the ala are more pronounced when they are wide and curved like yours.  Alarplasty to narrow and straighten the ala can make them fall into the background more.  I do not think it will be easy to narrow your tip slignificantly given you thick skin.  You should discuss these details with your surgeon.

Donald B. Yoo, MD, FACS · Answer

As a standalone procedure, I do not think you will be satisfied with the results.  However, as part of a comprehensive rhinoplasty, it will certainly improve the appearance and balance of your nose.

Shim Ching, MD · Answer

I agree that you need a reduction in the width of the nostril and a reduction of alar flare.  In your nose, the scars should be well camoflauged in the crease where your nose meets your face and within the nostril.  Having sebaceous skin will also help minimize your scars. 

	Alaplasty will only affect the base (lower third) of the nose and have only minimal effect on the tip.  I think it would be a good start and you could proceed onto other procedures if you wanted further refinement of your nose.

Toby Mayer, MD · Answer

This is not a good idea.  You have wide nasal bones that need to be narrowed if you narrow the base since if you just did the base the bridge would then look too wide.

Am I Good Candidate for Alar Base Reduction? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Alar base reduction

Answer: Alar base reduction

Answer: Alar base reduction only.

Answer: Alar base reduction only.

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Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

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Am I Good Candidate for Alar Base Reduction? (photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Alar base reduction

Answer: Alar base reduction

Answer: Alar base reduction only.

Answer: Alar base reduction only.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Alarplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.