Alar Reduction in Seoul: Narrowing Flared Nostril Wings

The short answer

Alar reduction narrows the nose base by removing a thin crescent or wedge of skin where the nostril wing meets the cheek, and sometimes from the nostril floor, so flared wings sit closer to the face. In Gangnam it typically costs about KRW 1.5–3 million, takes 30–60 minutes under local anesthesia, and stitches come out after 5–7 days. The fine scar in the crease usually fades over 6–12 months.

Key facts

• What it treats: Flared nostril wings or a wide alar base
• Typical cost in Gangnam: About KRW 1.5–3 million
• Procedure time: About 30–60 minutes
• Anesthesia: Local, with optional sedation
• Stitches out: About 5–7 days
• Scar: Fine line in the alar–cheek crease
• Stay in Seoul: About 7 days if done alone

Flared wings or wide nostrils

The ala is the curved wing of skin and soft tissue on each side of your nostril. Unlike the tip, it contains very little cartilage. Your lower nose can look wide for two main reasons: the wings curve far out to the sides (flare), or the nostril openings are large and the base sits wide on the face. Often it is a mix, and the pattern may differ on each side.

The technique follows the cause. For flare, the surgeon removes a thin crescent of skin from the crease where the wing joins the cheek. For a wide base or large nostrils, the cut extends into the nostril floor (sill), or for mild cases is made only inside the nostril. The edges are closed with fine stitches so each wing sits closer to the face. A few surgeons also use an internal cinching stitch to draw the bases together.

Most often chosen for and combined with

• Nostril wings that flare outward, especially when smiling
• A nose base wider than the distance between the inner eye corners
• A base that looks wider after tip projection

Alar reduction is frequently paired with tip plasty or a bridge augmentation in a single operation. If your concern is mostly large openings, see nostril reduction.

The procedure, step by step

Mark the wedge

With you seated upright and relaxed, the surgeon measures the flare and base width and draws the wedge on each side. It is common to remove only 2–4 mm; small amounts make a visible difference.

Where the incisions are made

External wedges sit just above the alar crease so the scar hides in its natural shadow. Sill incisions sit inside the nostril entrance. Internal-only methods leave no outside scar but give a smaller change.

Closure

Fine stitches align the skin precisely, which is the main factor in how well the scar heals.

Recovery timeline

• Days 1–2: Mild swelling; keep the stitch lines clean and moist with ointment
• Days 5–7: Stitches removed; makeup usually allowed afterwards
• Weeks 2–8: Scars pink and slightly firm; protect from sun
• Months 6–12: Scars soften and fade

Is it right for you?

A good fit if you

• Have true flare that shows from the front
• Are happy with your tip and bridge, or are treating them at the same time
• Can follow scar care for a few months

Another option may suit you better if

• The width is from a broad bony bridge
• Your tip is bulbous, which can make the base look wide even when it is not

Risks to discuss at your consultation

Ask about visible or notched scars, uneven wings, over-narrowing that makes the nostrils look pinched, and dark or raised scars in skin types prone to them. Ask how conservative the plan is; under-correction is easier to fix than over-correction.

Alar reduction cost in Seoul

Alone, alar reduction in Gangnam typically costs KRW 1.5–3 million. Combined with rhinoplasty, it is often an add-on fee. Read about the wide nose condition to understand what drives width.

Alar reduction vs. tip plasty

This guide is for general information and is not medical advice. Prices are typical ranges reported by Gangnam clinics in 2026 and vary by clinic, doctor and treatment plan; confirm directly with the clinic.

Patient questions

Frequently asked questions

Is alar reduction permanent?

Yes. The removed tissue does not grow back, so careful planning matters.

Will my smile look different?

Your nostrils will flare less when you smile, which most patients see as a softer, more balanced look.

Can alar reduction be done without outside scars?

Mild cases can use internal incisions only, but the change is smaller than with an external wedge.

How soon can I wear makeup?

Usually after the stitches come out at around 5–7 days.

Can I fly home after a week?

Most patients can, once the stitches are removed and the surgeon has checked healing.

Not sure which Gangnam clinic is right for you?

Tell us your goals, budget and travel dates. Our English-speaking coordinators compare doctor-led clinics and usually reply with free quotes within 24 hours.