Expert Alarplasty Surgery in Thailand

Alarplasty is a surgical procedure that permanently reduces and alters the size and width of the nostrils, bringing them into proportion with the rest of the face. It narrows the outer part of the nostrils by removing a small wedge of skin from the base of each nostril, reducing nostril flare. Although alar base reduction surgery doesn’t affect the nasal tip or bridge, it can greatly enhance the appearance of the nose.

The most common reason patients seek an alarplasty is dissatisfaction with the appearance of their nostrils. Surgery may also be desired for nostrils that appear too narrow or wide in comparison to other facial features. Some individuals may have asymmetrical nostrils, with one side significantly larger than the other. When smiling, people may notice that their nostrils appear wider due to flaring.

To undergo the procedure, individuals should be in good overall health and preferably be non-smokers. If you are a smoker or use nicotine products, your surgeon will ask you to stop two to six weeks before surgery as nicotine in any form hinders healing and increases the risk of complications.

Alarplasty can be done under local anesthesia and takes less than an hour to complete. The surgeon makes an incision in the skin crease where the cheek meets the nostril, removes a wedge of soft tissue at the base of the nostril, and closes the incision with stitches. The specific incision technique used depends on the patient’s existing nostril size and shape, as well as their desired outcome. When alarplasty is performed alongside a rhinoplasty, nostril reduction is typically the last step to ensure other aspects of the rhinoplasty do not affect the nostril shape.

Alarplasty healing and recovery typically requires a week of social downtime, with minimal visible swelling and no bruising. Sutures are usually removed after five to seven days, according to your surgeon’s preference. Most patients experience minimal discomfort and only require over-the-counter pain medication during the initial days of recovery. Be sure you will be given detailed instructions on how to clean the incisions and prevent the risk of infection.

After surgery, you will immediately see a noticeable change in the size of your nostrils. However, the full results will become more visible within the next two weeks as the swelling subsides. You can expect to see your final result around four weeks after the procedure.

Alarplasty procedures result in minimal and inconspicuous scarring. The incisions are strategically placed at the junction of the alar, nasal, and facial areas to ensure they are well-hidden. Initially, the scars may appear slightly pink, but this depends on the individual’s skin type and color. However, they can be easily concealed with makeup during the healing process. Over time, the scars will gradually fade and blend into the natural crease, becoming virtually undetectable.

Alarplasty, although a quick and safe procedure, has some potential concerns that should be noted. Careless suturing may result in a minor, visible scar. Excessive narrowing of nostrils can obstruct airflow and create an unnaturally pinched appearance. Additionally, achieving symmetry requires accurate measurements with calipers rather than relying solely on visual judgment.