Botched Alar Base Correction in Korea: What Went Wrong & How to Fix It

Alar base reduction — also known as nostril reduction or alarplasty — is a common procedure in Korea used to refine wide nostrils, reduce flare, or improve nasal proportions. But when done incorrectly, it can result in asymmetry, visible scarring, nostrils that look too small, or unnatural shape changes.

Because the alar base plays a major role in both facial aesthetics and nasal function, a botched alar base correction can be emotionally difficult and physically uncomfortable.

Korea is highly specialized in revision rhinoplasty, including difficult alar base revisions. This guide explains the causes, signs, and advanced correction options.

Common Causes of Botched Alar Base Correction

Botched results can occur when the initial alarplasty is performed without proper analysis, precision, or balance.

✔ Over-resection of nostril tissue

Removing too much skin creates overly narrow nostrils.

✔ Visible external scars

Poor placement or closure of alar incisions leads to noticeable scarring.

✔ Asymmetry

Uneven trimming or uneven wound contraction causes different-shaped nostrils.

✔ Notch deformity (Alar Retraction)

The nostril rim appears lifted or notched due to excessive removal.

✔ Pinched appearance

The nostrils look unnatural or too narrow from aggressive narrowing.

✔ Rounded or distorted nostrils

Incorrect shaping can alter the natural curve of the nostrils.

✔ Breathing difficulty

Over-tightened alar walls narrow the nasal airway.

✔ Implant tension or previous rhinoplasty

Implants can distort nostril shape or place tension on alar seams.

Signs Your Alar Base Reduction Was Botched

You may be experiencing a botched alarplasty if you notice:

• Uneven nostrils
• Obvious alar scars
• Visible notching or pulling of the nostril rim
• Nostrils too narrow or too small
• A pinched or “collapsed” nose appearance
• Difficulty breathing through the nostrils
• Harsh angles instead of natural curves
• Alar asymmetry increasing over time
• Hardening or scar tissue buildup

If more than 3–6 months have passed and these issues persist, revision may be needed.

How Korea Fixes Botched Alar Base Correction (Revision Options)

Korean revision rhinoplasty specialists use advanced techniques to restore symmetry, natural shape, and functional breathing.

1. Scar Revision (For Visible or Thick Alar Scars)

If the main issue is scarring:

• Surgical scar revision
• Z-plasty or W-plasty to break visible scar lines
• Laser resurfacing
• Silicone therapy
• PRP / PN injections for scar softening

Korea's scar management techniques can dramatically improve nostril appearance.

2. Nostril Rim Reconstruction (For Notch or Retraction)

If your nostril rim appears pulled upward or notched:

Revision techniques may include:

• Alar rim grafts
• Composite grafts (skin + cartilage from ear)
• Soft tissue grafts
• Reverse V-Y advancement flaps

These rebuild a smooth, natural nostril curve.

3. Correction of Over-Resection (Nostrils Too Narrow)

When too much skin was removed, the nose may appear tight or pinched.

Solutions:

• Alar base widening using local flaps
• Composite graft from the ear
• Soft tissue expansion
• Scar release + reshaping

This restores normal width and improves nasal airflow.

4. Uneven Nostril Shape / Asymmetry Correction

For uneven or mismatched nostrils:

• Adjusting scar tension
• Re-opening and re-closing sutures with precision
• Local flap correction
• Cartilage graft support
• Balancing nostril height and width

Korean specialists prioritize symmetrical, natural nostril curves.

5. Functional Revision (Breathing Problems)

If the alar correction narrowed your airway:

Methods:

• Internal valve reconstruction
• Alar batten grafts
• Release of scar tissue causing blockage
• Structural support using cartilage

Breathing must be restored as part of revision.

6. Implant-Related Correction

If a previous rhinoplasty implant pushes the nostrils out of shape:

• Implant repositioning
• Implant removal
• Replacement with autologous cartilage
• Alar reshaping after implant adjustment

This is common when patients had alar reduction + silicone/Gore-Tex bridge.

When to Consider Revision in Korea

Revision is likely needed if you experience:

• Scars that are too visible
• Mismatched nostril shapes
• Notch deformity
• Strong asymmetry
• Pinched or overly narrow nostrils
• Breathing obstruction
• Collapsed or weakened alar walls
• Distorted nostril curve
• Chronic discomfort or tightness

Most surgeons recommend waiting 6–12 months for final healing unless the problem is severe.

Why Korea Is a Top Destination for Alar Revision Surgery

✔ High volume of complex rhinoplasty revision cases

✔ Expertise in cartilage grafting & soft tissue reconstruction

✔ Advanced scar revision techniques

✔ Natural nostril shaping (not overly narrowed)

✔ Strong functional + aesthetic approach

✔ Experience with different ethnic nasal anatomies

Korean surgeons often repair cases that were botched overseas.

How to Avoid a Botched Alar Base Surgery in the Future

✔ Choose surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty, not general cosmetic surgery

✔ Avoid clinics promoting extreme narrowing

✔ Prioritize functional breathing alongside aesthetics

✔ Review nostril-specific before/after cases

✔ Choose conservative reduction that suits your nose shape

✔ Do NOT aim for “dramatic” alar reduction — it ages poorly

The goal should always be balanced, natural nostrils.

⭐ Final Thoughts

A botched alar base correction can significantly affect both the aesthetics and function of your nose. The good news is that Korea offers some of the world’s most advanced revision methods — from scar repair and rim grafting to structural reconstruction and symmetrical nostril reshaping.