Plastic Surgery London

Alar Base Reduction in London

What is an alar base reduction?

Alar base reduction, also known as alarplasty, is a procedure that refines the width and contour of the nostrils to bring the nose into better proportion with the rest of the face. It focuses on the lower part of the nose, the alar base, where the nostrils meet the cheeks. By making small, precise adjustments, the aim is to achieve a subtle, natural balance rather than a dramatic change.

At Real Plastic Surgery, Mr Naveen Cavale, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, approaches every alar base reduction with care and precision. Using fine incisions hidden in the natural creases of the nostrils, he gently removes or repositions small amounts of tissue to narrow wide or flared nostrils while preserving the natural curvature and structure of the nose.

This technique is most commonly performed in patients with naturally broader nasal bases, often seen in individuals of African or Afro-Caribbean heritage. In these cases, the goal is to refine the nasal shape while maintaining ethnic identity and achieving beautifully balanced results.

The result is a refined nasal shape that fits harmoniously with your facial features, enhancing rather than altering your appearance. In some cases, the procedure can also strengthen the nostril rims to improve airflow and breathing comfort.

Alar base reduction can be performed as a standalone procedure or combined with a rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty for a more comprehensive outcome. Each operation is tailored to the patient’s anatomy, goals, and overall facial proportions to ensure results that look balanced, natural, and long-lasting.

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Before and After

Why consider an alar base reduction?

The shape and width of the nostrils have a profound influence on facial aesthetics. For some, wide or asymmetric nostrils can make the nose appear disproportionately large or distract from other features. Alar base reduction gently reshapes this area to create better proportion and balance. The procedure can also be beneficial for Micro-Needling patients with functional concerns, such as nasal valve weakness or airway narrowing, improving both breathing and appearance.

Alar base reduction can:

Mr Cavale’s approach is precise and conservative, focusing on refinement rather than transformation to give his patients natural, long-lasting results. Every adjustment is made to preserve your individuality while restoring balance and confidence.

Types of alar base reduction techniques

Alarplasty can be performed using several techniques, chosen according to your anatomy and desired outcome. During your consultation, Mr Cavale will discuss which method best suits your goals.

Alar wedge excision
This technique removes a small wedge-shaped piece of tissue where the nostril meets the cheek (the alar base). It narrows the nostril width without affecting the natural curvature of the nose. Incisions are hidden within the crease, leading to minimal visible scarring and a subtle, natural refinement.

Nasal sill excision
A small incision is made inside the nostril to remove excess tissue from the inner base. This reduces nostril width internally and further limits visible scarring. It is often combined with the alar wedge excision for enhanced symmetry and proportion.

V-Y advancement
Mr Naveen Cavale generally avoids using the V-Y advancement technique, as it can leave more visible scarring around the nostrils.