Causes and Treatments for Sunken Alar Base | Recommended Cosmetic Medical Procedures Explained

Sunken alar base is a common cause of deep nasolabial folds, a protruding mouth area, and an appearance that looks older than one's actual age.

Many people who are bothered by a sunken alar base search for self-care methods to address it, but self-care actually carries unexpected pitfalls.

This article explains in detail from a medical perspective why the alar base becomes sunken in the first place, its causes, and the risks that can arise from self-care.

We will also introduce the cosmetic medical treatments proposed by KAI CLINIC TOKYO for those who wish to improve a sunken alar base and pursue greater beauty.

Main causes of sunken alar base

The two main causes of a sunken alar base are "bone structure" and "aging."

First, we explain how bone structure and aging relate to a sunken alar base.

When bone structure is the cause

When bone structure is the cause, it is most often due to congenital underdevelopment of the maxilla (upper jawbone).

This is also a skeletal characteristic common among Asians, where the bone forming the base of the nose is genetically low, making the center of the face appear flat.

When aging is the cause

It is not uncommon for the hollow at the alar base to become deeper and more noticeable than in one's youth due to the underlying bone becoming thinner with age (bone atrophy) or the fat and skin of the cheeks drooping downward.

Risks of self-care such as massage for sunken alar base

When bothered by a sunken alar base, many people try self-care thinking, "Can I fix this myself?"

However, self-care such as facial massage carries unexpected risks.

Sagging caused by damage to tissue around ligaments

Massaging with strong force can stretch the ligaments that support the skin or damage the soft tissue surrounding them.

Once tissue has been stretched, it cannot return to its original state, and there is a risk of causing serious facial sagging, so caution is necessary.

Hyperpigmentation and fine wrinkles caused by friction

The skin around the nostrils is very thin.

Therefore, the friction from self-care acts as a stimulus and can cause age spots and fine wrinkles to increase.

Bone structure cannot be changed by hand pressure

Moving bones with hand pressure is medically impossible, so attempting "self-improvement" is counterproductive.

If you are aiming for fundamental improvement of a sunken alar base, specialized treatment through cosmetic medicine is necessary.

Surgical approach by KAI CLINIC TOKYO for people with sunken alar base

KAI CLINIC TOKYO offers surgical cosmetic medical approaches for those troubled by a sunken alar base.

Noble surgery (alar base augmentation)

Noble surgery (alar base augmentation) is a procedure that projects the base of the nose forward to eliminate the sunken appearance.

It is a root-cause treatment that physically lifts the nasal base by inserting a prosthesis or cartilage at the base of the nostrils. Its effects last semi-permanently and scarring is minimally visible.

The results are also easier to appreciate when combined with other nasal cosmetic procedures.

• Downtime: Swelling and bruising may occur after surgery
• Side effects/risks: Swelling, redness, bruising, pain, tightness, unevenness (improves over time)

Learn more about the Aristocrat Procedure (alar base augmentation)

Hyaluronic Acid Injection

Hyaluronic acid naturally exists in the human body, so it blends well with the skin and involves minimal downtime.

By injecting hyaluronic acid into sunken areas to add volume, it is possible to instantly eliminate shadows.

Since no scalpel is used, this treatment is suitable for those who are hesitant about incisions; however, as the substance is gradually absorbed by the body over time, the duration of effect is limited.

Learn more about hyaluronic acid injection

How to Choose a Clinic You Won't Regret for Treating Alar Base Depression

To treat alar base depression through cosmetic medicine, it is important to keep the following points in mind when choosing a clinic.

• Does the clinic offer advice tailored to your specific cause?:
  Rather than a one-size-fits-all "hyaluronic acid for everyone" approach, choose a doctor who can explain convincingly why "this method is best for you" based on your individual needs
• Do the before-and-after photos look natural?:
  Clinics that post "case photos from various angles" or show "natural appearance during movement" tend to be more trustworthy
• Does the clinic openly explain the downsides?:
  A doctor who thoroughly explains risks and negative aspects, and works with you to consider countermeasures, gives you peace of mind

In particular, procedures such as the Aristocrat Procedure involve a scalpel, so be sure to carefully consider post-operative outcomes and make a choice you won't regret.

【Before & After Available】Case Studies of Alar Base Depression Treatment at KAI CLINIC TOKYO

At KAI CLINIC TOKYO, we have provided surgical approaches to improve alar base depression for a large number of patients struggling with this concern.

We would like to introduce some of the cases in which we have helped patients improve alar base depression at our clinic.

Full Nose

【Surgeon】
Takafumi Saito
【Treatment Details & Fees】
Costal cartilage harvest: ¥660,000, Auricular cartilage harvest: ¥165,000, Septorhinoplasty: ¥495,000, Nasal tip plasty: ¥330,000, Alar base augmentation (Aristocrat Procedure): ¥275,000, Rhinoplasty: ¥330,000, Revision from another clinic: ¥220,000
※A monitor program is also available. Please feel free to inquire.
【Risks & Side Effects】
Bruising, swelling, infection, scarring, asymmetry, left-right difference, relapse, discomfort, skin necrosis, etc.

View the Full Nose case in detail

Full Nose (Full Nose × Facial Contouring)

【Surgeon】
Takafumi Saito
【Treatment Details & Fees】
Nasal tip plasty: ¥330,000, Septorhinoplasty: ¥495,000, Auricular cartilage harvest: ¥165,000, Costal cartilage harvest: ¥660,000, Alar base augmentation (Aristocrat Procedure): ¥275,000, V-line contouring: ¥1,694,000, General anesthesia: ¥220,000
【Risks & Side Effects】
Bruising, swelling, infection, scarring, asymmetry, left-right difference, relapse, discomfort, skin necrosis, etc.

View the Full Nose × Facial Contouring case in detail

For Concerns About Alar Base Depression, Please Consult KAI CLINIC TOKYO

"My alar base depression makes me look older than I am…"
"I want to correct my alar base depression and achieve a more defined facial expression."

If you have such concerns, please feel free to consult KAI CLINIC TOKYO.

At our clinic, we take the time to conduct thorough consultations so that each patient can achieve the ideal beauty they are looking for.

Based on that, we propose treatment options to fulfill your wishes. We provide bone surgery utilizing our continuously refined medical skills and extensive knowledge to the fullest.

In addition, we do not simply perform nose surgery — we also provide thorough post-operative follow-up care, with a system in place so that patients can consult us at any time if they have any concerns.

If you are considering eliminating alar base depression and achieving "your own natural beauty," please feel free to book a counseling appointment via LINE.

Summary

Alar base depression can cause the nasolabial folds to appear deeper and make a person look older than their actual age, and it is a source of insecurity for many people.

Some people attempt to improve it through self-care, but self-care carries risks, and a cosmetic medical approach is necessary for fundamental improvement.

At KAI CLINIC TOKYO, we have supported a large number of patients troubled by alar base depression and have helped them achieve their ideal beauty.

If you are thinking "I want to correct my alar base depression and pursue my own beauty," please feel free to consult our clinic.