What is Alar Base Reduction Surgery?
If the width of your nostrils is wide and your nose appears bulbous, it can give a dull and unrefined impression. Additionally, large nostrils and a wide, flat nose with drooping nasal wings can detract from the overall harmony of your facial features.
To address these issues, you might consider alar base reduction surgery. This procedure effectively corrects wide nostrils and large nasal openings, enhancing your facial harmony and giving you a more refined and sophisticated appearance.
Methods of Alar Base Reduction
When performing alar base reduction, it is important to choose the appropriate technique based on the shape of the nose. The two main methods are the external incision method, which reduces the width of the nostrils, and the internal incision method, which reduces the size of the nostrils.
Since the thickness of the alar base, the position of the alar base starting point, and the degree of nostril flare differ for each individual, it is crucial to conduct a comprehensive diagnosis and provide a customized solution.
If your nostrils are asymmetrical, correction based on the cause of the asymmetry is necessary.
Firstly, if the columella is crooked, the nostril on the side where the columella is deviated will appear smaller, while the opposite side will appear larger. In this case, surgery can be performed to straighten the columella. If asymmetry persists, part of the tissue from the lower portion of the protruding columella cartilage can be trimmed to increase the space of the smaller nostril.
If the size or shape of the nostrils is different, alar base reduction surgery with an internal incision can be performed to simultaneously reduce the width of the alar base and the size of the larger nostril. For the opposite side, only the external incision method to reduce the width of the alar base can be performed to make both nostrils equal in size.
Effects of Alar Base Reduction
If there is a difference in the height of the alar base, the nostril on the drooping side will be much more exposed. In such cases, lifting the drooping alar base to match the height of the opposite side, known as alar base lift, can correct the nostril exposure.
Alar base lift is a surgical procedure that involves making an incision below the alar base to lift the drooping alar base. This procedure, also known as alar lift or nostril lift, is performed when the alar base is lower than the root of the columella.
For asymmetrical nostrils caused by differences in the tissue volume and height of the alar base, combining the alar base lift with the external incision method used for alar base reduction can yield even better results. The external incision method reduces the size of the nostrils, while the alar base lift corrects the height, ensuring symmetry and improved appearance.
To achieve the best results, it is essential to choose a skilled plastic surgeon specializing in alar base reduction. Ensuring thorough consultations for accurate diagnosis and developing a personalized surgical plan are crucial.
To minimize scarring concerns, the incision should be hidden in less visible areas and meticulously sutured. When selecting a clinic for alar base reduction, it is important to verify that they offer comprehensive post-operative care, as this will aid in scar management and overall recovery.