What Is the Alar Region of the Nose?

The alar region of the nose refers to the nostril rims (alar cartilages) that help maintain nasal structure, shape, and function. The alar cartilages provide support to the nostrils and play a significant role in nasal aesthetics and breathing.

Functions of the Alar Cartilages

• Structural Support: Maintains nostril shape and prevents collapse
• Airflow Regulation: Helps in proper breathing by keeping the nasal passage open
• Aesthetic Role: Defines the width and shape of the nostrils

Anatomy of the Alar Cartilages

The alar cartilages are composed of flexible, yet resilient cartilage that forms the nostril rims. These cartilages include:

i. Lower Lateral Cartilages (LLC)

• Located at the nasal tip and nostril edges
• Responsible for nostril shape and support

ii. Medial Crura

• The central portion of the lower lateral cartilages
• Provides tip support and projection

iii. Lateral Crura

• Extends towards the nostrils, giving shape and width to the nasal base

iv. Soft Tissue and Ligaments

• Help anchor the alar cartilages and contribute to nasal stability

What are Common Alar Deformities?

i. Alar Notch Deformity

• Cause: Weak or damaged alar cartilage, over-resection in rhinoplasty
• Appearance: A concave depression or indentation along the alar rim
• Correction: Cartilage grafting or composite grafts to restore smooth contour Alar deformities can occur due to genetics, trauma, or previous surgery. They can affect nasal function and aesthetics, sometimes leading to breathing issues.

ii. Alar Retraction

• Cause: Congenital, trauma, or over-resection in rhinoplasty
• Appearance: Excessively elevated nostrils, exposing too much of the inner nose
• Correction: Cartilage grafting to restore natural nostril contour

iii. Alar Collapse (Nasal Valve Collapse)

• Cause: Weak alar cartilage, aging, trauma
• Appearance: Nostrils collapse inward during breathing
• Correction: Alar batten grafts or nasal valve reconstruction

iv. Alar Flare

• Cause: Genetic predisposition, excessive nasal width
• Appearance: Wide, flaring nostrils
• Correction: Alar base reduction (Weir excision) to narrow nostrils

v. Alar Asymmetry

• Cause: Congenital differences, previous surgery, trauma
• Appearance: Uneven nostrils
• Correction: Alarplasty (nostril reshaping surgery)

vi. Thick or Bulky Alar Cartilage

• Cause: Thick skin, excess cartilage tissue
• Appearance: Heavy or puffy-looking nostrils
• Correction: Cartilage trimming and refinement

How Are Alar Deformities Corrected?

Alar deformity correction is typically performed through alarplasty, cartilage grafting, or structural rhinoplasty.

Surgical Techniques for Alar Correction

i. Alarplasty (Nostril Reshaping Surgery)

• Used for: Alar flare, asymmetry
• Method: Removing excess skin and cartilage to refine nostril shape

ii. Cartilage Grafting

• Used for: Alar retraction, collapse
• Method: Strengthening weak cartilage using septal or ear cartilage grafts

iii. Alar Base Reduction

• Used for: Wide nostrils
• Method: Precise excision of alar skin to reduce nostril width

iv. Nasal Valve Repair

• Used for: Alar collapse (breathing issues)
• Method: Supporting weak nasal valves using spreader or batten grafts

What is Alar Surgery Cost and Considerations?

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Surgeon’s expertise
• Extent of correction needed
• Use of grafts (if required)
• Hospital/clinic location

Estimated Cost Range:

• India: ₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000
• Mumbai (Premium Clinics): ₹1,00,000 – ₹2,50,000

What is Post-Operative Care for Alar Surgery?

Essential Aftercare Tips:

• Keep nostrils clean to prevent infection
• Avoid touching or pulling on the nose
• Sleep with head elevated to reduce swelling
• Use prescribed nasal sprays for healing
• Avoid heavy physical activities for 4-6 weeks

What are Possible Complications of Alar Surgery?

Though safe, some potential risks include:

• Swelling and bruising – Common in the first few weeks
• Scar visibility – Minimal when incisions are well-placed
• Breathing difficulties – Rare, may require revision surgery
• Nostril asymmetry – May need minor refinement

Why Choose Dr. Milan Doshi for Alar Surgery in Mumbai?

Dr. Milan Doshi is a renowned facial cosmetic surgeon in Mumbai, specializing in alarplasty and rhinoplasty. With extensive experience, he ensures natural-looking, balanced results for each patient.