Facial Surgery

Alar Base Reduction

Alar Base Reduction narrows the width of the nostrils and refines the lower third of the nose, creating a more balanced relationship between the nose and the rest of the face.

Procedure Time

1-2 hours

Results Last

Permanent

Hospital Stay

Not usually required

Recovery Time

4-6 weeks

Time Off Work

Approximately 7 days

Anaesthesia

General or TIVA Anaesthesia

Exercise

3-6 weeks

Price

From £5,500

Procedure

What is Alar Base Reduction?

Alar Base Reduction is a specialised Rhinoplasty technique designed to reduce excessive nostril width by carefully reshaping the base of the nose. Rather than altering the bridge or tip, this procedure focuses specifically on refining the lower nasal aperture to create a more elegant transition between the nose, cheeks and upper lip. Performed exclusively by Dr Yannis Alexandrides, the goal is never to create a smaller nose simply for the sake of it – but to achieve proportions that complement your unique facial features.

Expected Effects & Benefits

Narrows wide nostrils and reduces excessive flare
Improves lower nasal symmetry
Complements a Rhinoplasty or Tip Refinement procedure

Your Journey

Your Alar Base Reduction Journey

Your journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Yannis Alexandrides. He will take time to understand your concerns, medical history, lifestyle and desired result, alongside a detailed assessment of your nasal base, nostril width, alar flare, symmetry and the relationship between your nose and overall facial proportions.

This allows Dr Yannis Alexandrides to determine whether Alar Base Reduction is appropriate for you and create a personalised surgical plan designed to refine the width and shape of the nasal base while maintaining natural balance with the rest of the nose and your individual facial features.

Ahead of surgery, you will have a comprehensive pre-operative assessment with our nursing team. This includes a review of your medical history, current medications, lifestyle and overall health, alongside any physical assessment or clinical tests required for your individual surgical plan.

Our team will explain what to expect before and after surgery, answer any questions and ensure you are appropriately prepared for your procedure and recovery.

Good nutrition, hydration and healthy lifestyle habits can help prepare your body for surgery and support the healing process. You will receive personalised guidance on diet, medications, exercise, smoking cessation where appropriate, and practical preparation before your procedure.

Every recommendation is tailored to your individual health, lifestyle and surgical plan to ensure your preparation is appropriate for you.

Preparing the skin and tissues forms an important part of our 360° approach. Ahead of your procedure, our team may recommend a personalised programme to optimise skin and tissue quality and prepare you for surgery.

Where appropriate, this may include LPG Endermologie®, ElixirMD Light Therapy, 111SKIN skincare or Dr Yannis Alexandrides’ Dramatic Healing Serum, selected according to your individual skin, tissues and surgical plan.

Our care continues well beyond your procedure. Following Alar Base Reduction, our clinical team will monitor your healing through scheduled reviews, with particular attention to swelling, incision healing, nostril symmetry and the developing shape of the nasal base.

You will receive personalised guidance on incision care, skincare, sleeping position, activity and protecting the treatment area during the early stages of recovery. Where appropriate, an IV drip or other post-operative support may also form part of your individual aftercare programme.

As your recovery progresses, Dr Yannis Alexandrides and our clinical team will review your nasal-base shape, nostril symmetry, facial balance and scars at scheduled follow-up appointments.

Where appropriate, ElixirMD Light Therapy, personalised scar care, 111SKIN skincare or selected treatments may be recommended to support scar maturation, skin quality and the continued refinement of your result.

Procedure

How does Alar Base Reduction work?

Alar Base Reduction works by removing small, precisely measured wedges of tissue from the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek, narrowing the nostril base while preserving natural movement and expression. The incisions are closed with fine sutures placed with meticulous attention to symmetry. Because the procedure focuses only on the lower nasal aperture, the upper nasal framework remains unchanged unless combined with Rhinoplasty or Tip Refinement.

UNDERSTANDING NOSTRIL PROPORTION:

The nostrils frame the lower third of the nose and significantly influence facial harmony.
Disproportionately wide or flared nostrils can draw attention away from the eyes and other features.
Even a few millimetres of refinement can transform overall facial balance.

WHY RESTRAINT MATTERS:

Every procedure is carefully planned to avoid overcorrection.
The aim is refinement – not making the nose appear artificially narrow or surgically altered.

Dr Yannis’ philosophy is to preserve your individuality while enhancing facial balance.

Procedure

Surgical Techniques & Technology

Standalone Alar Base Reduction

Performed alone for patients happy with their overall nose shape but wishing to narrow nostril width or flare.

Combined with Rhinoplasty

Performed alongside Rhinoplasty to reshape the entire nose in harmony for a fully coordinated result.

Combined with Tip Refinement

Paired with Tip Refinement to address both the nasal tip and nostril base together.

Alar Crease Incision Technique

Incisions placed within the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek for discreet, well-concealed scars.

Precision Tissue Measurement

Careful pre-operative measurement ensures symmetrical, natural-looking narrowing of the nostrils.

Your Journey

The 5-Step Process

Consultation

A detailed nasal assessment with Dr Yannis Alexandrides to evaluate nostril width, alar flare, symmetry and facial proportions, and create a personalised Alar Base Reduction plan.

1

Preparation

Pre-operative health assessment, medication review and personalised guidance on nutrition, lifestyle, skin and tissue preparation.

2

Surgery

Alar Base Reduction performed under Local or TIVA Anaesthesia, using a surgical approach tailored to your nasal-base anatomy, nostril shape, facial proportions and desired result.

3

Recovery

Personalised incision-care and activity guidance, with structured clinical reviews as swelling subsides and the refined nasal base begins to settle.

4

Long Term Care

Ongoing clinical review, personalised scar care and skincare where appropriate to support scar maturation and the long-term quality of your result.

5

Your Journey

Recovery Timeline

1–2 Weeks

Initial swelling, bruising and tenderness around the nasal base progressively subside as the area begins to heal. Your clinical team will review your incisions and provide personalised guidance on proper skincare, incision care, sleeping position and protecting the nose during early recovery.

2–6 Weeks

Swelling continues to reduce and the refined shape and width of the nasal base become increasingly visible. Everyday activity can progressively increase, with exercise gradually reintroduced according to your recovery and the guidance of your surgical team.

6 Weeks–6 Months

The tissues continue to settle and the nostril shape, symmetry and overall nasal-base proportions become increasingly refined. Incision lines continue to soften and mature, becoming progressively less noticeable over time.

6–12 Months

The longer-term shape of the nasal base becomes increasingly established as the tissues fully settle. Scars continue to mature and generally become softer and less noticeable throughout this period.

Long-Term Care

Alar Base Reduction is designed to create a long-lasting change to the width and proportions of the nasal base. Consistent sun protection, personalised scar care and appropriate skincare can help support scar quality and the long-term appearance of your result.

Your Journey

Post surgery activity guidelines

Shower

48 HOURS

Keep the area clean and dry unless advised otherwise by your surgical team.

Driving

3-5 DAYS

Resume only when comfortable, alert and no longer taking strong pain relief.

Work

7 DAYS

Most patients return to desk-based work around one week after surgery.

Exercise

3-6 WEEKS

Avoid strenuous exercise until cleared by your surgeon.

Suitability & Safety

Am I suitable for Alar Base Reduction?

Ideal Candidate Profile

Alar Base Reduction may be suitable for patients who: – Feel their nostrils appear too wide for their face – Notice excessive nostril flare when smiling – Feel the lower nose dominates their facial proportions – Are planning Rhinoplasty and require refinement of the nostril base – Have asymmetrical nostrils – Are seeking subtle improvement rather than major nasal reshaping Suitability is confirmed during a comprehensive facial assessment.

Risks & Complications

As with any surgery, risks may include bleeding, infection, bruising, swelling, altered sensation, visible scarring, asymmetry, delayed healing and anaesthetic risks. These risks are discussed in detail during consultation, alongside the steps taken to reduce them through careful planning, surgical technique and aftercare.

Your Surgeon

Dr Yannis Alexandrides

Dr Yannis Alexandrides is one of the UK’s leading facial plastic surgeons with extensive expertise in Rhinoplasty and facial reconstructive surgery. Rather than applying a standard approach, he carefully analyses the relationship between the nostrils, nasal tip, bridge and wider facial proportions to determine the most elegant surgical plan for each patient.

Pricing

Overview

Every patient and procedure at 111 Harley St. is unique, which is why surgical pricing is tailored to your individual case rather than based on a one-size-fits-all approach.

The cost of your procedure will depend on factors such as your anatomy, the complexity of surgery, the technique required and your personalised treatment plan.

Following your consultation and assessment, our team will provide a clear, individualised quotation based on the surgery recommended for you.

Finance Calculator

Loan Amount: £5,000

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Term: 12 months

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First Payment

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*Interest rates are subject to status and individual credit score.

Resources

Reviews

     
 
 
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   Ellie Hook 
 3 September 2026
 
 
  I came to the 111 Harley Street for UltraClear laser treatment with Claudia Brand. She was absolutely incredible, talking me through the process and made me feel very safe. She was also brilliant throughout the process. I cannot wait to see my result! Thank you Claudia!
  
 
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   Jenna Nicholls 
 2 September 2026
 
 
  Really lovely team - thank you Anna and Jamy for looking after me during treatment! Can’t wait for the results 🥰
  
 
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   Edward Smith 
 31 August 2026
 
 
  Very Impressed With My Rhinoplasty I had been unhappy with the shape of my nose for years and finally decided to look into rhinoplasty. Choosing the right surgeon and clinic was extremely important to me, so I spent a lot of time researching before booking my consultation at 111 Harley St. The consultation was detailed and reassuring, and I appreciated the focus on achieving a result that suited my face rather than simply changing my nose. The whole process was handled professionally, from the initial consultation through to the follow-up appointments. My nose now looks much more balanced with the rest of my face, and the improvement is significant without looking artificial.
  
 
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   Louise F 
 28 August 2026
 
 
  I had my consultation with Anna and honestly couldn’t have been happier with the experience. She took the time to really listen to all of my concerns and went through everything with me in so much detail, including the different treatment options. I really appreciated how thorough and attentive she was, and the whole consultation felt very personal and tailored specifically to me rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. I felt really comfortable and well looked after. I’m really happy with the experience and will definitely be coming back for my treatment. Thank you so much, Anna!
  
 
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   Mily Barnett 
 27 August 2026
 
 
  Spoke to Anna about all my skin concerns over a consultation - she was super helpful, knowledgeable and can’t wait to start my journey with 111 Skin. Thank you Anna.
  
 
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   Mia Raggett 
 25 August 2026
 
 
  Had a lovely consultation with Anna, helped me so much with my questions and was very friendly. Thanks!
  
 
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   Yasmine Rabah 
 20 August 2026
 
 
  Just did the thermale treatment and the whole experience with the staff and the treatment and care has been superb. I highly recommend. Will let you know how it goes with the other treatments that I will do:)
  
 
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   Kat M 
 19 August 2026
 
 
  Fantastic facial with Jamy and consultation with Anna. Would 100% recommend!
  
 
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   Rosie Walker 
 17 August 2026
 
 
  A Wonderful Experience I decided to explore a Y Facelift after becoming increasingly unhappy with the loss of definition around my lower face. I was initially quite nervous about having facial surgery, so having a detailed consultation was really important to me. Everything was explained clearly and I felt comfortable asking lots of questions. I’m so pleased with the outcome my face looks fresher and more defined, but it still looks completely like me.
  
 
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   Anna 
 10 August 2026
 
 
  Amazing experience with Claudia. I was really nervous but she put me at ease and explained the process to me. I would definitely recommend coming here for all aesthetic treatments!
  
 
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   Altay Ali 
 7 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia Is always amazing, and I would highly recommend her services.
  
 
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   Robert White 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  Claudia was amazing! Really friendly, polite and professional. Will 100% be coming back.
  
 
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   Jessica Thomas 
 4 August 2026
 
 
  The Best Decision I Made I had a facelift at 111 Harley Street. From my very first consultation, I felt completely comfortable and confident that I was in safe hands. The surgeon took the time to understand what I wanted to achieve and explained every stage of the process clearly, from the operation itself to the recovery and expected results. The care I received was outstanding from start to finish. Every member of the team was kind, professional, and incredibly supportive. They were always available to answer any questions, and I felt genuinely looked after throughout my entire journey. Now that I've fully recovered, I am absolutely delighted with the results. I look refreshed, younger, and far more confident, while still looking completely natural. The best compliment I've received is that people keep telling me I look really well without realising I've had surgery. It's exactly the subtle, natural result I was hoping for. Choosing 111 Harley Street was one of the best decisions I've made. The expertise, attention to detail, and exceptional aftercare exceeded all of my expectations. I would wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone considering a facelift.
  
 
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   Hannah Lucy 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  I had a consultation with Anna who was so knowledgeable and extremely friendly. The team were welcoming and I look forward to starting treatment.
  
 
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   Aashika Balaji 
 31 July 2026
 
 
  Claudia is excellent and incredibly intuitive
  
 
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   William Julian Taranu-Lee 
 29 July 2026
 
 
  Had such a lovely consultation at 111 Harley St. I felt so welcomed and comfortable in their hands, and really appreciated their honest cosmetic advice. Would absolutely recommend having a consultation at 111 Harley St. You won’t regret it :)
  
 
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   Bilgi P 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  +0
I had plastic surgery from doctor Ashvani in 2019 and he messed up my tummy completely. I lost all my sensation in my tummy area and after 7 years, I still regret of having tummy tuck with him. He stitched my whole tummy tuck area without leaving drainage after the operation. I ended up having this massive hole in my tummy area. I have the most horrible scars and I don’t wear bikini for not showing my belly button. You can see how bad his stitches are from the photo. Please do your research before you trust him so you don’t regret like I did. My friend had similar operation in Turkey and you would not even notice she had plastic surgery.my advice is  go to Turkey to have proper plastic surgery with surgeons who knows how do operate.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Georgia Westley 
 28 July 2026
 
 
  Had a consultation with Anna who helped with my skin concerns, she helped advice on treatments and products to support on my hyper pigmentation and dryness. Would highly recommend
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Chloe L 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Really pleased with my consultation with Anna. She explained everything clearly, and the skin scanning was very insightful. Everyone was warm and friendly – I’d highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Zara Walsh 
 27 July 2026
 
 
  Thank you so much, great experience!
  
 
 
  
 
 
   Trustindex rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 856 reviews,showing our latest reviews

Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Alar Base Reduction be performed without a full Rhinoplasty?

Yes. Many patients undergo Alar Base Reduction as a standalone procedure when they are happy with the overall shape of their nose but wish to narrow the width of their nostrils or reduce nostril flare.

Will my nostrils look natural afterwards?

Absolutely. Dr Yannis carefully calculates the amount of tissue removed to preserve the natural shape and movement of the nostrils while improving facial balance. The goal is refinement, never overcorrection.

Will I have visible scars?

The incisions are placed within the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek, allowing scars to heal discreetly. As they mature, they typically become very difficult to notice.

How long does recovery take?

Most patients return to work within approximately one week. Mild swelling continues to improve over several weeks, while scars continue to mature over the following months.

Can Alar Base Reduction improve facial symmetry?

Yes. For patients with asymmetrical nostrils or uneven nostril width, carefully planned surgery can create a more balanced appearance while maintaining natural facial proportions.

Can this procedure be combined with Rhinoplasty?

Very commonly. Alar Base Reduction is frequently performed alongside Rhinoplasty or Tip Refinement to create a fully harmonious result across the entire nose.

Are the results permanent?

Yes. Once healing is complete, the reduction in nostril width is permanent. The nose will continue to age naturally, but the surgical refinement remains long-term.

Why choose a facial reconstructive surgeon for Alar Base Reduction?

Even millimetres can dramatically affect the appearance of the nose. Dr Yannis’ background in craniofacial and facial reconstructive surgery provides the precision and anatomical understanding required to achieve elegant, symmetrical and natural-looking results.