Personal Evolution in Rhinoplasty Tip Shaping: Beyond the Tripod Concept.

Abstract

Introduced over 50 years ago, the "tripod concept" has long been the foundation of our understanding of tip dynamics in rhinoplasty. Modern approaches to rhinoplasty have built on these principles and seen the evolution of several operative techniques to address tip aesthetics. This article and accompanying case video detail our algorithmic approach to tip shaping, based on the use of complete lower lateral cartilage reshaping and tensioning, clarified use of medial crural transection and overlap, with stabilization on a fixed-floating septal extension graft, and deliberate management of the soft-tissue envelope. The intraoperative sequencing, key technical considerations, relevant classification schemes, and global decision-making processes are reviewed. .