Alarplasty is a specialized cosmetic procedure designed to alter the shape and size of the nostrils, particularly to address wide or flared nostrils. Unlike a full rhinoplasty, which changes the overall structure of the nose, Alarplasty in Dubai focuses on reshaping the alar base (the lower part of the nose where the nostrils meet the cheeks) without affecting the nose's bridge, tip, or overall shape.

Understanding the Purpose of Alarplasty

What Alarplasty Specifically Targets

Alarplasty is performed to adjust the width or flare of the nostrils, which often makes the nose appear wider than desired. This procedure is ideal for patients who are generally satisfied with the shape of their nose but want a more refined, proportional nostril shape.


Some common reasons for undergoing alarplasty include:

Narrowing wide nostrils

Reducing flared nostrils

Improving asymmetrical nostrils

Creating more balance with the nose and other facial features

How Alarplasty Works

During alarplasty, a surgeon removes a small wedge of tissue from the alar base to reduce the size or width of the nostrils. The incisions are carefully placed at the junction between the nostrils and the face, making the scars discreet and difficult to notice. Once the tissue is removed, the surgeon sutures the area to create a refined nostril shape that is more in line with the patient's aesthetic goals.

Will Alarplasty Change the Overall Shape of My Nose?

Alarplasty is limited to the nostrils and does not alter the structure of the nasal tip, bridge, or septum. This means that while the appearance of your nostrils may change, the overall shape and contour of your nose will remain the same. For example, if you have a prominent nasal tip or a wide nasal bridge, these features will not be affected by alarplasty alone.

However, reducing the width of the nostrils can subtly impact the overall balance of your nose, giving it a slimmer, more refined appearance. For patients looking to make broader changes to their nose’s shape, alarplasty can be combined with other procedures, such as rhinoplasty, for a more comprehensive transformation.

What Alarplasty Will Not Do:

It won’t reduce the size of your nasal tip.

It won’t straighten a crooked nose.

It won’t alter the nasal bridge or address breathing issues (such as a deviated septum).

Subtle Impact on Nasal Proportions

While alarplasty does not change the fundamental structure of the nose, it can improve the proportions and balance of your face. By reducing the width or flare of the nostrils, the nose often appears more streamlined, complementing other facial features. This subtle refinement can make the entire face look more harmonious and balanced without dramatically altering the nose’s overall shape.

Natural-Looking Results

One of the key benefits of alarplasty is that it produces natural-looking results. Since the procedure only targets the nostrils, patients can expect an enhancement rather than a drastic change. Alarplasty results are tailored to each individual’s face, ensuring that the changes blend seamlessly with the rest of their features.

Combining Alarplasty with Rhinoplasty for More Extensive Changes

For patients who are looking to address not only their nostrils but also other aspects of their nose, combining alarplasty with rhinoplasty may be an option. Rhinoplasty allows for reshaping the nasal tip, bridge, and septum, while alarplasty specifically refines the nostrils. Together, these procedures can create a more comprehensive change, improving the overall appearance of the nose.

Patients seeking a more significant transformation to their nasal shape should discuss the possibility of combining procedures with their surgeon during the consultation. This approach ensures that all concerns are addressed in a single surgical plan, leading to cohesive, natural-looking results.

Post-Surgery Expectations: How Your Nose Will Look

Initial Swelling and Bruising

After alarplasty, there will be some swelling and possibly bruising around the nose. These effects are temporary and typically subside within one to two weeks. While your nostrils may initially appear smaller or more refined right after surgery, the final results will become clearer as the swelling goes down.

Final Results

Once the healing process is complete, the changes to your nostrils will be subtle yet noticeable. Your nose will retain its original shape, but with a more refined appearance due to the reduced nostril size. The goal of alarplasty is to achieve a natural result that enhances your facial proportions without making it obvious that you’ve had surgery.

Conclusion: Will Alarplasty Change the Shape of Your Nose?

In summary, alarplasty will not change the overall shape of your nose, but it will refine the nostrils to create a more balanced, harmonious appearance. If you are satisfied with the general structure of your nose but feel that your nostrils are too wide or asymmetrical, alarplasty is an excellent option for subtle enhancement. For more comprehensive changes to the shape of your nose, combining alarplasty with other procedures, such as rhinoplasty, may be necessary. By consulting with an experienced surgeon, you can determine the best approach to achieve your aesthetic goals while maintaining a natural look.