Excerpt from Rhinoplasty, Tripod Theory

Synonyms, Key Words, and Related Terms: rhinoplasty, tripod theory, nasal reconstruction, nasal surgery, nasal tip, nasal tip surgery, septal cartilage, alar cartilage, pyriform aperture, interdomal ligament, medial crus, dermocartilaginous ligament, lateral cartilage, interdomal sling, tip plasty, tip surgery

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Surgically manipulating the nasal tip to achieve predictable results is the most difficult feature of rhinoplasty. One who can control the nasal tip is said to be able to master rhinoplasty. Anderson first proposed the rhinoplasty tripod theory.¹ A complete comprehension of the tripod theory and the dynamics of tip projection, support, and rotation allow categorization of the different factors that may need alteration to manipulate the nasal tip.

Rhinoplasty is technically demanding, and tip surgery is an art form. It requires an in-depth knowledge of the complex three-dimensional anatomy of the nose, a complete understanding of its physiology, familiarity with the described techniques of nasal tip surgery, and a well-developed sense of aesthetics; all are essential in mastering rhinoplasty.

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