Alarplasty Before and After Pictures

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Alarplasty, also known as alar base reduction or nostril reduction surgery, is a cosmetic surgery procedure that narrows the width of the nostrils for a more refined and balanced nasal appearance. This procedure is especially beneficial for patients  who feel their nostrils appear too wide, flared, or disproportionate to the rest of their nose or face — with or without the need for a full rhinoplasty. 

Wide or flared nostrils and bulky or rounded alar bases can affect the overall aesthetics of the nose, making it appear too wide from the front. For those considering cosmetic surgery, achieving facial symmetry and proportion is essential. Dr. Aicee Bernal, a renowned plastic surgeon in Manila, offers a range of options, including non-surgical treatments for facial rejuvenation, to enhance the overall appearance of the nose without altering the bridge.

Before surgery:  Make sure blood pressure is controlled.  Medications that cause bleeding or easy bruisability like anticoagulants should be stopped 1-2 weeks prior to surgery.

Anesthesia: local anesthesia or IV sedation

Incision: depending on the extent of alarplasty, the incision is usually placed at the junction of the Ala and cheek, and if excess alar hanging is observed, additional incision is made on the alar rim.  

Procedure Time: 1-2 hours

Types of Alarplasty:

Simple Alarplasty - only the sides of the nostril is removed to reduce flared alar wings

Full Alarplasty - Aside from the nostril side, the front of the ala is reduced to correct alar over hanging.  Also nasal sill excision is done to reduce nostril width.

• Post-op Course: Oral antibiotics and pain reliever are taken for a week.  Expect swelling for 1-2 weeks over the ala, cheeks and upper lip.  Frequent ice compress is advised to help with the swelling.  

• Suture Removal: sutures are removed after 6-7 days
   
• Downtime: 7-14 days for swelling; most return to work in a week

• Scarring:  scars are usually visible for 1-3 months and will gradually fade over 6-12 months.  Use of silicone scar gel and sunblock are advised
   
• Results: You will immediately notice the difference in nostril width and shape of the ala especially after the swelling subsides in 1-3 months.  We all have unequal nostril opening for the right and left side baseline,  it is best to manage expectations about symmetry. 

Q: Will there be a visible scar? 

A: The skin heals through scar formation, hence there will be a scar but it will gradually fade over 6-12 months.

Q: Can alarplasty be done without rhinoplasty? 

A: Yes, alarplasty can be performed as a standalone cosmetic surgery if you’re only concerned about nostril width or flare, which is often considered in facial rejuvenation treatments.  

Q: Will my nose still look natural? 

A: Absolutely. Dr. Aicee Bernal ensures that the reduction is subtle and balanced, enhancing your natural features without overcorrection.

Cost of Alarplasty by Dr. Aicee Bernal is P35,000 for simple alarplasty and P55,000 for full alarplasty if done in the clinic under local anesthesia, and this does not yet post-operative medications. 

If you prefer to be sedated, the procedure will be done in a hospital setting under the care of a board-certified anesthesiologist. Hospital cost will vary from P120,000–160,000 for uncomplicated cases, also excluding preoperative laboratories , clearance and post-op medications.

Dr. Aicee Bernal, a trusted plastic surgeon in Manila, specializes in facial rejuvenation and understands the importance of subtle, natural-looking refinement, particularly for ethnic noses. She customizes each alarplasty procedure to align with your unique anatomy and aesthetic goals, ensuring results that are proportionate and harmonious with your other facial features. 

Refine your nose shape with alarplasty by Dr. Aicee Bernal, a trusted plastic surgeon in Manila known for her expertise in cosmetic surgery and facial rejuvenation, ensuring natural-looking facial harmony.