Nostril reduction surgery in Turkey targets the width and shape of the nostrils to create a more refined nasal base. Often requested by patients with flared or wide nostrils, this delicate procedure is expertly performed by Dr. Yunus Kaplan in Istanbul. Whether performed as a standalone treatment or alongside full rhinoplasty, nostril reduction ensures aesthetic precision without compromising breathing.

For Your Dream Nose. Perfection Through ProfessionalismYUNUS KAPLAN M.D. RHINOPLASTY & REVISION RHINOPLASTYBorn in 1979 in Iskenderun, The Yunus Kaplan Private Clinic was founded, a renowned otorhinolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) who has specialized in facial aesthetics for more than 15 years in Istanbul. After graduating from Gaziantep University Faculty of Medicine in 2001, Yunus Kaplan left the Department of ENT at Gaziantep University Faculty of Medicine as an expert in 2009.

For Your Dream Nose. Perfection Through ProfessionalismYUNUS KAPLAN M.D. RHINOPLASTY & REVISION RHINOPLASTYBorn in 1979 in Iskenderun, The Yunus Kaplan Private Clinic was founded, a renowned otorhinolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat specialist) who has specialized in facial aesthetics for more than 15 years in Istanbul. He is one of the best surgeon for Alarplasty Surgery (Alar Base Reduction ) in Turkey.

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Table of Contents

Case Studies

Rhinoplasty in a 34-Year-Old Female Patient

Before & After

Complex Revision Rhinoplasty in a 29-Year-Old Female Patient

Before & After

Rhinoplasty in a Patient with a Large, Thick-Skinned Nose

Before & After

Rhinoplasty for Nasal Tip Ptosis, Wide Tip, Dorsal Hump, and Low Radix

Before & After

Comprehensive Rhinoplasty for Functional and Aesthetic Improvements

Before & After

Overview of Alarplasty Surgery (Alar Base Reduction ) in Turkey

Anesthesia

General

Duration

3-4 hours

Hospital Stay

1 Day

Hotel Stay

7 Days

Recovery Time

6-12 months

Back to Work

1 Week

What Is Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Nostril reduction surgery is a cosmetic intervention performed to balance the aesthetic appearance of the nose. Also known as alarplasty, this procedure aims to provide a more symmetrical appearance by reducing the width and opening of the nostrils. During the surgery, small tissue pieces at the base of the nostrils are removed, and incisions are usually placed in natural creases to minimize the visibility of scars. This procedure, which can be performed under local anesthesia, typically takes about an hour.

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How Is Nostril Reduction Surgery Performed?

Nostril reduction surgery is a procedure performed to reduce the width of the nostrils and make the alar wings more proportional. During the surgery, small tissue pieces are removed from the area where the nostrils meet the cheeks, narrowing the nasal base. These incisions can be made in various shapes suitable to the patient’s facial structure and are usually closed with dissolvable sutures.

Wedge-shaped incisions
Crescent-shaped incisions
Precision incisions

Surgeons take care to preserve the natural lines of the nose while removing excess tissue from the alar wings. After the surgery, patients may experience mild swelling and bruising. The procedure is often combined with rhinoplasty to contribute to improving the overall aesthetic appearance of the nose. One of the biggest advantages of the surgery is that it enhances nasal symmetry, providing a more balanced facial appearance.

Alarplasty Surgery (Alar Base Reduction ) in Turkey Before & After

When Is Nostril Reduction Surgery Performed?

Nostril reduction surgery is applied to individuals who experience aesthetic or functional discomfort due to the width of their nostrils or disproportionate appearance of the alar wings. This surgical intervention is usually performed to correct expansions in the lower part of the nose and to make the overall appearance of the nose proportional to the face. Nostril reduction surgery is preferred in various situations, which are listed below:

Excessive alar flaring
Wide nasal base
Post-traumatic deformities
Revision surgery
Ethnic rhinoplasty

The surgery helps the nose achieve a more refined appearance without disrupting its natural structure. Nostril reduction surgery is especially important for individuals who have experienced trauma or have nasal symmetry distortions after previous surgeries. This procedure not only corrects the aesthetic appearance but can also improve nasal function. For example, if wide nostrils cause breathing difficulties, nasal functions can be reorganized along with the surgery.

Although functional reasons are often neglected, large nostrils can cause the external nasal valve to collapse, leading to respiratory problems. In such cases, nostril reduction surgery can be applied to improve breathing in addition to aesthetic concerns. This procedure is an important surgical intervention that addresses aesthetic concerns related to nasal shape while also supporting nasal health.

Who Is Not Suitable for Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Nostril reduction surgery may not be suitable for patients in certain situations. To ensure the surgery’s success and minimize risks, certain health conditions and surgical obstacles need to be considered. The characteristics of patients not suitable for this surgery are specified below:

Presence of active infection
Diseases leading to poor wound healing
Multiple previous nasal surgeries
Insufficient skin elasticity
Psychological issues or unrealistic expectations
Functional nasal obstruction

Patients considering this surgery need to have both their aesthetic and functional nasal structures evaluated. Before the surgery, the surgeon reviews the patient’s general health status to minimize the risk of complications. Additionally, the patient’s expectations about the surgery’s results should be carefully examined to determine if they are realistic. In this process, it is especially important to be psychologically stable and to comply with the postoperative care process.

How Is Nostril Reduction Surgery Applied?

: Dr. Yunus Kaplan during rhinoplasty surgery in Istanbul, Turkey

Nostril reduction surgery is a special surgical procedure applied to improve the overall aesthetics of the nose and correct excessive widening of the nostrils. The surgery is performed to reduce the size of the nostrils and achieve a symmetrical appearance. The surgeon reshapes the area by removing small tissue pieces from the alar base where the nose meets the cheeks. Although it can often be combined with rhinoplasty surgery, it can also be performed as an independent operation. The details of the procedure may vary depending on the patient’s nasal structure and the desired outcome.

The main steps of the surgery are as follows:

Local or general anesthesia
Small incisions at the base of the nostrils
Wedge-shaped tissue removal
Non-dissolving external sutures and dissolving internal sutures

The aim of the surgery is to provide the nose with a more harmonious and balanced appearance with the face. Surgeons minimize visible scars by hiding incision sites within the natural nasal creases. This procedure can improve both the aesthetic and functional features of the nose, helping the patient breathe more comfortably. Additionally, the shape and size of the nostrils change permanently after the procedure. The results of the surgery usually become fully apparent within a few weeks, but swelling and mild discomfort during the recovery process are considered normal.

What Are the Side Effects of Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Although nostril reduction surgery is a preferred intervention for aesthetic and functional purposes, it carries some risks of side effects and complications. The recovery process after surgery may vary for each patient. Common possible side effects include swelling, scarring, and risk of infection.

Swelling
Bruising
Scarring
Infection
Delayed wound healing
Difficulty breathing
Numbness
Stiffness
Asymmetry
Dissatisfaction with results

Postoperative swelling and bruising disappear within a few weeks in the majority of patients, but swelling may last longer in some individuals. Appropriate care during the recovery process can help minimize infection and scarring. Additionally, although rare, there is a possibility of experiencing permanent breathing difficulties after this procedure. Temporary numbness and a feeling of stiffness during healing are also common, but these conditions improve over time.

Some patients may not be satisfied with the final results and may need revision surgery. Following the doctor’s instructions plays an important role in minimizing postoperative complications. Paying special attention to wound care contributes to a healthier progression of the recovery process.

How Successful Is Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Alar base reduction surgery, known as nostril reduction surgery, is a surgical intervention with quite high success rates. This operation, which results successfully in terms of aesthetic and functional outcomes, provides satisfaction in the majority of patients. Patients are generally satisfied with the nasal appearance after surgery, and their breathing functions may also improve. Success rates vary between 85% and 95% in various studies.

The main factors affecting success:

Surgeon’s experience
Patient’s anatomical structure
Preoperative planning
Surgical technique used

Complications are rare after this surgery, but possible risks include small scars or slight asymmetry. Depending on the technique applied and the surgeon’s expertise, the postoperative recovery process is generally comfortable, and most patients achieve the desired aesthetic results. The surgery can also be performed together with rhinoplasty.

How to Prepare Before Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Preparing for nostril reduction surgery is vital for a successful operation and recovery process. In this process, the patient needs to be ready for surgery both physically and psychologically. It is important to examine the nasal anatomy in detail, to provide open communication between the surgeon and the patient, and to correctly understand postoperative expectations.

The medical evaluation and consultation process includes the following steps:

Examination of nasal anatomy
Review of past nasal surgeries
Assessment of general health status
Preoperative considerations:
Avoiding blood-thinning medications
Stopping alcohol consumption
Quitting smoking and electronic cigarettes

Lifestyle changes also play a significant role before surgery. Maintaining a healthy diet and meeting the body’s water needs support the recovery process. Sharing the patient’s current medications and supplements with the surgeon helps minimize possible risks. Some medications may need to be discontinued before surgery.

In the period up to the day of surgery, the surgeon’s instructions should be strictly followed, care should be taken to rest and consume plenty of fluids. Alarplasty can be performed with local or general anesthesia depending on the case. Each patient should be ready for the day of surgery by meticulously following the health team’s recommendations. In this process, morale and stress management can also increase the chance of surgical success.

How Should Postoperative Care Be After Nostril Reduction Surgery?

Postoperative care after nostril reduction surgery is of great importance for the healthy progression of the recovery process. The postoperative period requires attention both physically and emotionally. Below are the key points to consider to support the recovery process:

Taking care of wound care
Regular application of antibiotic ointment
Using saline spray to keep the nasal lining moist
Applying cold compresses to reduce swelling and bruising
Keeping the head elevated and avoiding bending over
Avoiding strenuous activities
Not blowing the nose
Using prescribed medications for pain management
Preferring soft foods
Ensuring adequate water consumption
Following the surgeon’s instructions for nasal splint or suture care
Not neglecting postoperative follow-up appointments
Avoiding wearing glasses and using contact lenses if necessary
Avoiding direct sunlight and extreme temperatures

There are other considerations to pay attention to during the recovery process. In this period, it is necessary to manage the person’s stress levels, allocate enough time for rest, and maintain a healthy nutrition regimen. Especially for supporting mental state, support from family and friends is important. Additionally, attending all control appointments recommended by the surgeon is critical for early detection of potential complications. Therefore, postoperative care after nostril reduction surgery should encompass not only physical healing but also psychological well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is suitable for nostril reduction surgery?

Nostril reduction surgery is suitable for individuals aged 18 and older who are healthy and wish to alter the size or shape of their nostrils for aesthetic reasons. It is commonly performed on those with wide or asymmetrical nostrils, congenital deformities, or nasal injuries caused by trauma. Suitable candidates should consult with a qualified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination and to clarify their expectations.

What techniques are used during the surgery?

Nostril reduction surgery, also known as alar base reduction, typically employs techniques such as wedge excision and nostril sill resection. The wedge excision technique removes a curved piece of tissue from the alar region to reduce the width of the nostrils. Nostril sill resection targets the base of the nostrils to decrease their size. These methods can be combined based on individual anatomy to achieve a more harmonious nasal appearance.

What is the recovery process like after the procedure?

After nostril reduction surgery, patients typically experience mild swelling and discomfort, with recovery allowing for a return to normal activities within the first 1-2 weeks. Stitches are usually removed after 5-7 days, bruising is rare, and swelling subsides within 1-2 weeks. Full healing and the maturation of incision scars take between 6 months to 1 year. To support recovery, it is important to keep the incision lines clean, protect them from the sun, and use recommended creams. Follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor healing and address any concerns.

Does the surgery leave scars?

Nostril reduction surgery generally leaves minimal scarring. Surgeons place incisions within the natural creases between the nostrils and the cheeks to conceal them. With proper care, these scars become almost imperceptible over time.

Does nostril reduction affect the shape of the nose?

Nostril reduction helps create a more symmetrical and proportionate nasal appearance by narrowing wide or flared nostrils. The procedure involves removing small pieces of tissue from the sides of the nose, resulting in narrower nostrils that better harmonize with facial features. This also enhances the overall shape and balance of the nose, making it more aesthetically pleasing.

Do nostrils get smaller after surgery?

Yes, the nostrils can be reduced during nose‑reshaping surgery. The width of the nostrils generally depends on nasal anatomy and facial proportions. If the nostrils are too large and out of harmony with the facial features, the surgeon can narrow them. This step is usually performed together with rhinoplasty, but a stand‑alone nostril‑reduction procedure is also possible. Although a noticeable reduction is seen after surgery, swelling in the early phase may mask the result. As the swelling subsides, the nostrils begin to assume their natural shape, and the final appearance becomes apparent within a few months. The patient’s skin characteristics and healing response can affect the speed of this change. By following the surgeon’s instructions, a more aesthetic and balanced outcome can be achieved.

Is nostril reduction difficult?

Nostril‑reduction surgery is generally not difficult, yet it requires the surgeon to work carefully and meticulously. To narrow the nostrils, incisions are usually made at the alar base, and excess tissue is removed to decrease their width. Symmetry must be preserved, because an improperly executed intervention can cause an unnatural appearance. The recovery period varies among individuals but is typically smooth. Swelling may persist in the nose area for the first few weeks, and the site must be protected until the stitches heal. If the patient follows the care routine prescribed by the surgeon, the risk of complications is low and normal life can be resumed quickly.

How many days does alar‑reduction surgery take to heal?

The healing process after alar‑reduction surgery is largely complete within 1–2 weeks. During the first few days, swelling and mild bruising may appear on the nose, but these effects diminish over time. Stitches are usually removed 5–7 days after surgery, and the patient can return to social life. However, it may take a few months for the final results to stabilise and for all swelling to resolve. During the postoperative period you should avoid movements that could harm the nose. In particular, do not put pressure on the nasal area, avoid exaggerated facial expressions and refrain from strenuous exercise—these precautions accelerate healing. Following the care routine recommended by the surgeon makes the recovery easier and leads to successful results.