How Long is Alar Base Reduction Recovery? 

How Long is Alar Base Reduction Recovery? 

Your nose can define your face. Nowadays, many people are looking to achieve the perfect nose, with rhinoplasty being one of the top cosmetic procedures in the UK. If you’re unhappy with your nose, especially the nostrils, then alar base reduction may be suitable for you. Keep reading to learn about alar base reduction recovery and what to expect. 

What is Alar Base Reduction?

Alar base reduction is a cosmetic procedure to reduce the width of the nostrils. A surgeon may recommend the procedure to correct flared nostrils or those that are not proportional to the rest of your face. The procedure results in a more defined nose that balances well with the rest of the face.

Sometimes the procedure may be performed as part of rhinoplasty, but most people request it as a stand-alone procedure. There is an increasing demand for alar base reduction in the UK. If it is part of rhinoplasty, the doctor will perform it at the second stage following a nose job or at the same time as your nose job procedure. Recovery time depends on the extent of the procedure.

How Long is Alar Base Reduction Recovery?

Recovery after a nose reduction surgery varies from one patient to another. Compared to other facial procedures, recovery is usually faster. The surgeon closes the incisions with a dissolvable or superficial set of sutures. You will need to return to the clinic 5 to 7 days following the procedure to have the sutures removed in the case of the second option. You will have a thin alar base reduction scar in the nostril-cheek crease that should fade over time.     

Some people use makeup to conceal the scar. However, in many cases, your plastic surgeon will try as much as possible to position the incision where the scar will be hidden. After the surgery, it is normal to have some redness around the incision site for the first 2 weeks. Your nose will also be swollen, but this should go down in about 1 to 2 weeks. You can resume normal activities the day after your surgery and light exercises after 2 weeks.

However, make sure to avoid activities that may strain the incision site. Many patients feel comfortable going out in public after 2 weeks. Full recovery following an alar base reduction can take 1 to 3 months. If the procedure were part of rhinoplasty, recovery tends to be longer.

When Will the Results Start Showing?

The vast bulk of alar base reduction recovery tends to take up to 2 weeks. This is when the majority of bruising and swelling clears up. Most people can already feel a boost of confidence two weeks after the surgery. Although much of the swelling goes down within the first 2 weeks, it can take 3 to 6 months for all the swelling to clear. 

What are the Possible Risk and Complications of Alar Base Reduction?

Alar base reduction is an outpatient procedure, meaning you get home the same day. The risk of complication with this procedure is usually minimal but can still occur, like with any other cosmetic procedure. Your doctor will discuss the complications of the surgery during your consultation.

Choosing an expert surgeon will help ease your mind since you know that the surgeon has experience performing the procedure and managing your aftercare. Some possible risks and complications following nostril reduction surgery may include:

  • Infection at the surgical site
  • Your nose may end up worse than it was or slightly asymmetrical
  • Excessive scarring

Alar Base Reduction Before and After at The Harley Clinic, London 

Before and after rhinoplasty and alar base reduction at The Harley Clinic

Alar Base Reduction UK: Book Your Alar Base Reduction Today 

Talk to an expert rhinoplasty surgeon today if you think alar base reduction is what you need or want to learn more about the procedure and alar base reduction recovery. 

Book an appointment today to learn more about the procedure and your options.              

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