Overview
What alar flare is
The alae are the curved sides of your nostrils. When they spread outward, or the nostrils look large compared to the rest of the nose, it's called alar flare. The nostrils may widen even more when you smile, and the base of the nose can look broad even if the bridge and tip are well shaped.
Why nostrils are wide
Nostril width is mostly inherited and varies across ethnic backgrounds. Aging and previous nose surgery can also change how the nostrils look.
How alar reduction works
Dr. Kim performs alar reduction by removing a small, carefully measured piece of tissue at the base of the nostrils. The incisions sit in the natural crease where the nostril meets the cheek, so they're very hard to see once healed. The goal is a narrower base that still looks natural on your face.
It can be done on its own or together with rhinoplasty or tiplasty if you'd like to change other parts of the nose.
Small changes, big difference
A couple of millimeters matters a lot here, and taking too much can make nostrils look pinched. Dr. Kim plans conservatively and will show you how nostril changes affect the balance of your face before surgery.
Recommended Treatment
Alar Reduction
Alar Reduction, also known as alar base reduction surgery, is a precise nasal refinement procedure designed to narrow wide nostrils and reduce flaring for improved facial balance. At CK Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, Dr. Charles Kim performs alar reduction using meticulous surgical planning and advanced techniques to preserve natural nasal contours while enhancing proportion and symmetry. This procedure is commonly performed alone or in combination with rhinoplasty to refine the nasal base without altering overall nasal identity. Dr. Kim’s artful, conservative approach ensures results that look harmonious, subtle, and ethnically respectful, while maintaining optimal nasal function and long-term aesthetic stability.
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