Alarplasty is the procedure of reducing the width of nostrils. It is done by surgically removing a wedge of tissue close to the crease of the nose where it meets the cheeks. The resultant incision hides well in that location. Typically wide nostrils are seen in ethnic noses. At times the procedure is combined with a full rhinoplasty (nose job). Alarplasty can be done under local anesthesia only. Recovery is quick. Typically there is no black and blue bruising and swelling as seen after a rhinoplasty. The fine stitches are removed in 4 to 5 days. During this time one can work from home or cover the incision areas with small Band-Aids or skin colored tape and return immediately to work.