Rhinoplasty Anatomy Bellevue & Seattle

Understand the key anatomical structures of the nose and how each plays a role in achieving balanced, natural rhinoplasty results.

Dr. Young

Understanding Rhinoplasty Anatomy

This page was created to help you understand the terms used throughout your rhinoplasty journey, from your consultation through your final results. Below is a picture of one of our rhinoplasty patients, followed by definitions of important nasal anatomy.

Before & After Rhinoplasty

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External Nasal Anatomy

Columella: The structure between the nostrils is made up of the medial crura of the lower lateral cartilages. It is part of the lower third of the nose and is where the incision is typically made in an open rhinoplasty approach.
Glabella: The bony prominence between the eyebrows, overlying the frontal sinus.
Nasal Alae: The soft tissue portions of the nose that form the outer walls of the nostrils.
Nasal Bridge: The central, light-reflecting plane of the nose extends from the radix (nasion) to the nasal tip. The adjacent nasal sidewalls appear more shadowed, creating natural contour.
Nasal Tip: The most prominent and defining point of the nose plays a central role in facial balance and aesthetics.
Radix (Nasion): The uppermost part of the nose between the eyes. The radix refers to the bony structure, while the nasion is the soft tissue surface landmark.

rhinoplasty anatomy

rhinoplasty chart

Bony & Structural Framework

Frontal Bone: The frontal bone forms the forehead and connects to the nasal bones. The glabella is part of this structure.
Nasal Bones: Nasal bones make up the upper third of the nose.
Frontal Process of the Maxilla: Connects the nasal bones to the rest of the facial skeleton and is often involved in osteotomies (controlled bone reshaping).

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Cartilage Structure of the Nose

The nose is divided into thirds:
- Upper third (bone)
- Middle third (upper lateral cartilages)
- Lower third (lower lateral cartilages)
Septal Cartilage: The central support structure of the nose extends into the nasal cavity. It plays a critical role in both shape and function.
Upper Lateral Cartilages: The middle third of the nose influences both appearance and airflow.
Lower Lateral Cartilages (Major Alar Cartilages): Shape the nasal tip and nostrils. These are divided into:
Medial crura: Intermediate crura
Lateral crura: The position and thickness of these cartilages affect tip shape, projection, and nostril support.
Alae (Alar Tissue): Soft, fatty tissue without cartilage that forms the outer nostrils. Adjustments here can refine nostril width.

Nasal Tip Structure (Tripod Concept)

The lower lateral cartilages form a “tripod” structure consisting of the medial and lateral crura. Adjusting the length or position of these components changes the rotation and projection of the nasal tip. Below is an intraoperative view of the nose:

intraoperative view of the nose

Internal Nasal Anatomy

Below are images of the internal nasal structures:

Ethmoid Bone: Forms the upper portion of the septum and part of the eye socket. It may be used in grafting for structural support.
Vomer Bone: Forms the lower portion of the septum and connects with the surrounding facial bones.
Maxilla: Forms part of the cheek, palate, and nasal structure.
Palatine Bone: Forms the back portion of the nasal floor and contributes to septal support.

Below are images of the internal nasal structures:

Common Anatomical Terms

These terms are frequently used during rhinoplasty discussions:

Cephalic: Toward the head; often refers to the upper portion of the nasal cartilage
Caudal: Toward the feet; relates to the lower portion of the septum
Dorsum/Dorsal: The bridge or “back” of the nose
Ventral: Toward the front or underside
Superior: Upward direction
Inferior: Downward direction
Medial: Toward the center
Lateral: Away from the center

Maintaining adequate structural support—typically at least 10 mm of dorsal and caudal septum—is important to preserve long-term stability and avoid complications.

rhinoplasty diagram

face diagram

Rhinoplasty Anatomy Bellevue & Seattle

Understanding Rhinoplasty Anatomy

Before & After Rhinoplasty

Schedule A Consultation

External Nasal Anatomy

Bony & Structural Framework