The Soft Triangle: An Often Neglected Area in Rhinoplasty

Abstract

Background

This study aims to focus on one of the lesser mentioned topics in discussions of aesthetic nose operations, the soft triangle. In addition to outlining the characteristics of the area, the various complications specific to the soft triangle are discussed along with methods and techniques utilized by the authors to avoid such complications.

Methods

One hundred twenty-seven of 841 (15 %) patients who were assessed both preoperatively and intraoperatively for the presence of an anatomical issue of the soft triangle were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups according to their anatomical features that were identified intraoperatively. The preoperative and postoperative photographs of all patients were compared to assess the effects of the respective soft triangle grafts on both nostril length and the nostril/lobule harmony.

Results

The average follow-up time of the patients was 27 months (6–60). Postoperative notching (of various degrees) was found in six (6/127) total patients: one (1/31) patient in the first group, two (2/24) patients in the second group, and three (3/72) patients in the third group.

Conclusion

Neglecting the soft triangle area might yield grim results in terms of cosmetic and functional aspects. To avoid these problems, incisions should be planned purposefully, and patients who have anatomically weak support should be identified so that additional precautions should be taken for these cases.

Level of Evidence V

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