Alar Base Reduction

Alar Base Reduction is a procedure that reduces wide alar bases and nostrils to suit the proportions of the Face. Depending on the degree of flaring, it may be performed using a Non-incisional method that gathers the nasal alae with dissolvable sutures, or an incisional method that removes skin and tissue from inside the nasal alae. Incisions are placed internally so that surgical marks are not easily visible externally.

Reduces wide alar bases and nostrils to a size proportionate to the Face and creates a natural Nasal Tip shape without leaving scars. When the nasal ala skin is excessively thick or broad, the alar bases may appear flat and wide, the nostrils may look large, and the Nasal Bridge may appear low. Opera uses discreetly positioned and designed incision lines and meticulous double-layer suturing to prevent surgical marks from being visible externally.

Will Alar Base Reduction with an incision leave significant scars?

The Non-incisional method using sutures has the advantage of leaving no scars, but its Alar Base Reduction effect may be limited when the degree of flaring is excessive. Although the incisional method may raise concerns about scarring, Opera places minimal incision lines inside the nasal alae and uses meticulous suturing to effectively reduce thick, wide alar bases without visible external surgical marks.

Various Types of Bulbous Nose

Cases with thick, large nasal lobules

Cases with flared nasal alae and wide nostrils

Complex cases with large nasal lobules and widely flared nostrils

Alar Base Reduction Methods

CASE 1. When the lower portion of the nasal alae is wide: Non-incisional method

Through a minimal incision inside the nostril, the ligaments and periosteum around the nasal ala are dissected, and the nasal ala is gathered and sutured using dissolvable sutures. The procedure takes approximately 15 minutes, and suture removal is not required.

CASE 2. When the nasal ala skin is thick: Incisional method

This method reduces the width of the nasal alae by excising and suturing excess skin and subcutaneous tissue of the nasal alae through minimal incision lines inside the nostrils. Because the incision lines are small and located internally, effective Alar Base Reduction can be expected without visible external surgical marks.

Procedure Information

| Procedure time: Approximately 30 minutes | Anesthesia: Sedation anesthesia | Suture removal: After 5–7 days | Follow-up visits: 1 visit | Recovery period: Daily activities are possible after suture removal

Pre- and Post-Procedure Precautions

After the Procedure

· Swelling or bruising around the eyes may occur for 1–2 days after the procedure, and slight bleeding or discharge may be present for approximately 2–3 days. · Cold compresses are recommended for approximately 7 days after the procedure, followed by warm compresses. Apply compresses near the upper part of the nose and around the eyes, and avoid the Nasal Bridge and Nasal Tip. · You may wash your face and apply makeup starting the day after suture removal. · Do not remove any tape or splint attached to the nose, or any cotton placed inside the nose, on your own. · Do not blow your nose for approximately 2 weeks after the procedure. When sneezing, keep your mouth open. · Exercise other than light walking, as well as public baths, jjimjilbangs, and saunas, may be resumed 3 weeks after the procedure. · While sleeping, elevate your head with 2–3 pillows, and do not sleep on your side or face-down for approximately 4 weeks. · Take only the painkillers and antibiotics prescribed by the hospital, and avoid aspirin-based medications. · Alcohol and smoking may be resumed 3 weeks after the procedure. Wear glasses or sunglasses after 3 weeks (or after 1 month in the case of Genioplasty).

Please Be Sure to Check

The surgical method and results may vary depending on the individual’s condition and are determined through consultation with a specialist.