Treatment Overview
Alar Base Reduction Surgery (also called alarplasty) is a specialized nose reshaping procedure designed to reduce the width of the nostrils and refine the nasal base. In Korea, this surgery is widely performed as part of rhinoplasty or as a standalone procedure, especially for patients with wide, flared nostrils that affect facial balance.
Korean plastic surgeons are globally recognized for their expertise in nose contouring, using advanced incision techniques to achieve natural, scar-minimized, and symmetrical results.
Purpose & Benefits
- Narrows wide or flared nostrils
- Improves nasal base proportion with the rest of the face
- Enhances nose shape to look more slender and refined
- Corrects asymmetry of nostril width or shape
- Creates a more harmonious nasal tip and base balance
- Can be performed as a standalone surgery or combined with rhinoplasty
Ideal Candidates
- Patients with wide or rounded nostrils
- Individuals with a broad nasal base that dominates the face
- People seeking refinement without drastically altering their natural nose
- Patients looking to achieve a more balanced and defined nose shape
- Both men and women, including ethnic rhinoplasty patients who want natural narrowing of the nostrils
Possible Risks & Complications
- Temporary swelling, bruising, or redness
- Mild asymmetry in healing (usually corrects as swelling subsides)
- Small visible scars (usually hidden in natural creases)
- Rare risks: infection, excessive narrowing, or keloid formation
Surgical Techniques in Korea
Korean surgeons use precision-based alar reduction methods tailored to each patient’s facial proportions:
- Weir Excision Technique – Small wedge of tissue removed at the alar base to narrow nostrils
- Nasal Sill Excision – Reduces nostril width without altering outer nostril shape
- Combined Alarplasty with Tip Plasty – Enhances nose tip and base for better definition
- Hidden Scar Incisions – Incisions placed along natural creases to minimize scar visibility
- Customized Approach – Adjusted based on ethnicity, facial harmony, and desired refinement
Recovery & Aftercare
- Swelling and bruising: 5–10 days
- Stitches removed: after 5–7 days
- Resume daily activities: about 1 week
- Full recovery: 2–4 weeks
- Scars fade gradually, blending into natural skin folds
- Avoid strenuous activities and direct sunlight during healing
Results & Longevity
- Narrower, more refined nostrils
- Improved nose-to-face balance
- Subtle yet noticeable enhancement (not an overdone look)
- Permanent results with proper surgical technique
- Natural outcome that maintains ethnic identity while improving proportions
Cost of Alar Base Reduction Surgery in Korea
The cost depends on clinic reputation, surgeon experience, and whether it is combined with other rhinoplasty procedures:
- ₩2,000,000 – ₩3,500,000 KRW ($1,500 – $2,700 USD) – Standalone alar reduction
- ₩3,500,000 – ₩6,000,000 KRW ($2,700 – $4,600 USD) – With nasal tip plasty
- ₩6,000,000 – ₩9,000,000 KRW ($4,600 – $7,000 USD) – With full rhinoplasty package
By comparison, in the U.S. or Europe, alar base reduction typically costs $5,000 – $8,000 USD.
Popular Clinics in Korea
- ID Hospital – Specialized in combined rhinoplasty and alarplasty for balanced results
- Banobagi Plastic Surgery – Natural nose reshaping with scar-minimization focus
- JW Plastic Surgery – Experienced in ethnic rhinoplasty and alar reduction
- View Plastic Surgery – Known for aesthetic refinement of wide nostrils
- Regen Plastic Surgery – Offers comprehensive nose contouring procedures
Summary
Alar Base Reduction Surgery in Korea is a highly sought-after nose reshaping procedure that narrows wide or flared nostrils for a more balanced, refined facial appearance. With Korea’s advanced surgical techniques and emphasis on natural results, patients benefit from scar-concealed incisions, permanent refinement, and enhanced facial harmony. This procedure is ideal as a standalone surgery or as part of a comprehensive rhinoplasty plan.
