Alar Reduction
Refine wide nostrils for balanced, confident proportions from every angle.
Refine wide nostrils for balanced, confident proportions from every angle.
Alar reduction narrows wide or flared nostrils to bring the nose into proportion with the rest of the face. Rather than simply removing tissue, Link PS considers the relationship between nostril width, tip volume, and bridge height to create a three-dimensionally balanced nose. The procedure can also raise the bridge line perception and refine overall facial impression — even without touching the bridge itself.
Under 30 minutes. One of the quickest facial procedures with immediate visible change.
Stitches removed at 7 days. Most patients return to daily activities within 5 to 7 days. Final nostril shape stabilizes at 1 to 2 months.
Local or IV sedation (sleep anesthesia) depending on patient preference and whether combined with other procedures.
Permanent narrowing of the nostril base. Scars are hidden inside the nostril crease or in the natural alar-cheek junction, becoming virtually invisible once healed.
The incision method is chosen based on your alar thickness and the amount of reduction needed.
Beautiful nostrils are defined by harmony with the rest of the nose and face, not by a single measurement.
Alar base width should align with the inner corner distance of the eyes (intercanthal width).
Nostril opening should be approximately two-thirds of the total nose length when viewed from the side.
The nostril base should form an equilateral triangle, with nostril opening to tip height in a 6:4 ratio.
Nostrils should maintain proportion when smiling. Excessive flaring during expression indicates the alar base needs dynamic assessment.
Your surgeon analyzes your nostril shape, alar thickness, and facial proportions. The incision method (internal vs. external) and reduction amount are determined based on your unique anatomy.
The exact tissue removal area is marked. The design considers the balance between nostril width, nose tip, and bridge to ensure a naturally harmonious result from all angles.
Under local or IV sedation, the planned tissue is precisely removed and the incision is closed with fine sutures. The entire procedure takes under 30 minutes.
Stitch removal at 7 days. One follow-up visit to check healing. Bruising and swelling are minimal. Premium aftercare focuses on reducing swelling quickly and stabilizing tissue for optimal scar healing.
Our surgeons explain procedures, share insights, and discuss real patient cases.
All incisions heal with scar tissue, but alar reduction incisions are placed in well-hidden areas — either inside the nostril or in the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek. In most patients, scars become subtle once fully healed, though visibility varies depending on skin type and healing tendency.
Yes, and it frequently is. Combining alar reduction with bridge augmentation or tip plasty in a single session gives the most balanced result. However, it should be planned carefully to avoid an over-narrowed appearance — the final nostril width is determined after evaluating the overall nasal proportion.
The amount of reduction depends on your anatomy, skin thickness, nostril shape, and overall nasal proportions. Small changes can make a significant visible difference. Rather than targeting a fixed number of millimeters, the plan is individualized during consultation to ensure a balanced result.
A pinched or over-resected appearance can usually be avoided with conservative planning and proper technique. We reduce the nostril proportionally, maintaining the natural curve and shape. However, this is a known risk if too much tissue is removed, which is why careful preoperative design is essential.
Because tissue is removed, the change is generally long-lasting. However, final shape can still be influenced by healing, scar maturation, and long-term tissue changes. In rare cases, minor asymmetry may develop as scars settle, which can be addressed with a simple touch-up if needed.
When performed conservatively, alar reduction should not affect breathing. However, excessive tissue removal can narrow the nostril opening and potentially restrict airflow. This is why we use careful measurements and conservative planning to maintain both aesthetics and function.
For alar reduction alone, 7 to 10 days is sufficient — stitches are removed around day 7. If combined with rhinoplasty, plan for 10 to 14 days. After returning home, we offer remote follow-up via photos and video consultation.
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