Alar (alare): the most lateral point of the nostril wing
Quick facts
- Definition
- The most lateral point of each nostril wing, used as a measurement reference.
- Abbreviation
- al (right and left).
- Measures
- The distance between the two alar points is the alar width.
- Compared with
- Distance between the inner corners of the eyes and the nasal index.
- In HOF
- Reference for width and symmetry of the base of the nose.
Alar, or alare, is the most lateral point of each nostril wing. It is one of the reference points (landmarks) used in facial anthropometry and in photo analysis, because it is easy to identify and defines the width of the nasal base.
What is the alar point for?
The distance between the right and left alare is the alar width. It is compared with the height of the nose in the nasal index and with the distance between the inner corners of the eyes, which the analysis by fifths usually treats as close.
| Measurement | Between which points |
|---|---|
| Alar width | Right alare and left alare |
| Nasal height | Nasion and subnasale |
| Intercanthal distance | Inner corners of the eyes |
How does it enter the assessment of the nose?
The nose is the central reference of the face, and a wide or asymmetric base changes the reading of the whole midface. The alar point helps check:
- whether the two wings have the same position and the same width;
- whether the base of the nose is proportional to the rest of the face;
- whether there is an asymmetry that the photo makes evident.
What does HOF have to do with it?
The nose is a high vascular risk zone, because of the arteries that communicate with the ophthalmic system. Hyaluronidase should be available when hyaluronic acid is used, and the decision of whether to treat is up to the qualified professional, according to the rules of their professional council in Brazil.
Measurements such as the alar width serve to describe the face and organize planning, not to set an ideal standard. There is normal variation between people and between groups.
Also known as: alar point, al.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between alare and nasal width?
Alare is the point on each side. The alar width is the distance between the two points, and this is the measurement that goes into the nasal index.