If wide or flared nostrils make your nose feel out of proportion, alar base reduction surgery offers a subtle and effective solution. At Symmetry Clinic in London, we provide expert alarplasty in London, tailored to reduce nostril width and create a more harmonious look. Led by Consultant Nasal and Facial Plastic Surgeon Mr Santdeep Paun, our approach is precise, personalised, and focused on natural-looking results that enhance your features without appearing artificial.

Alar base reduction, also known as alarplasty, is a surgical procedure that narrows the width of the nostrils by removing small wedges of tissue at the base of the nose. This adjustment can help refine nasal proportions, particularly in individuals who feel the base of their nose is too wide, flared, or lacks definition.

The procedure may be performed on its own or alongside other treatments such as nose size reduction or rhinoplasty. It is commonly sought by patients from a wide range of ethnic backgrounds and is always tailored to suit the patient’s facial structure, heritage, and goals.

While it is a small, targeted procedure, nostril reduction surgery can deliver impressive improvements to the overall facial balance. Benefits include:

• A narrower nasal base and more proportionate nostrils
• Improved symmetry and harmony with other facial features
• Permanent results with minimal downtime
• No visible scarring when performed correctly
• The ability to refine previous rhinoplasty or nose reshaping procedures

Can be completed as a standalone treatment under local anaesthetic
 

Alar base reduction may be a small procedure, but it demands precision, balance, and a deep understanding of facial anatomy. Choosing an experienced specialist surgeon ensures natural-looking, symmetrical results with minimal risk.

Benefits of having this procedure performed by a nasal and facial specialist include:

• Tailored approach based on individual facial proportions
• Reduced risk of asymmetry or over-reduction
• Invisible or discreetly placed scars
• Specialist experience in both cosmetic and ethnic nasal surgery
• Trusted track record with consistently refined results

The cost of alar base reduction varies depending on whether it is performed as a standalone procedure or combined with other nasal surgeries, or our luxury concierge services. Your initial consultation with Mr Paun is £275 and includes clinical assessment and 3D imaging.

A personalised quote will be provided following your consultation. Symmetry Clinic offers payment plans through our partner hospitals, and we’re happy to walk you through your options with transparent, upfront pricing.

Consultation

The process begins with a private consultation with Mr Santdeep Paun at our Harley Street or London Shard clinic. Using imaging and examination, we assess the nasal base, nostril width, and facial proportions to design a tailored treatment plan. Whether you're considering this surgery on its own or as part of a wider nose reshaping treatment, you’ll receive honest advice from one of the UK’s most experienced nasal surgeons.

Procedure

Alarplasty is typically performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case procedure. Small incisions are made in the natural crease at the base of the nostrils to remove a precise amount of soft tissue. The incisions are closed with fine sutures and are placed carefully to heal discreetly.

Recovery

Recovery from alar base reduction is straightforward. Mild swelling and bruising may be present in the first few days, but most patients return to work or normal activities within 3 to 5 days. You will be given full aftercare instructions and attend follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and satisfaction with the result.

Results

Final results begin to appear as swelling subsides, usually within 2 to 3 weeks. Scars fade over time and are generally well-hidden in the natural curves of the nostrils. The overall effect is a refined nasal shape that enhances facial balance without drastically altering your appearance.

If you’ve been exploring nostril reduction surgery to achieve a more balanced facial appearance, Symmetry Clinic offers luxurious facilities and bespoke services alongside expert surgical care led by a nationally respected specialist. With a strong record in alarplasty and cosmetic surgery procedures, Mr Santdeep Paun ensures every treatment is precise, natural-looking, and tailored to you.

Whether you want to correct flared nostrils, achieve more symmetry, or learn more about what is alar base reduction, we’re here to help you make an informed and confident choice. Request a consultation today and take the first step toward a refined, proportionate nasal base.