Three-dimensional (3D) area and volume measurements for rhinoplasty

Morphometric changes achieved in rhinoplasty are mostly analyzed on two-dimensional (2D) images. However, most of these alterations are amenable to three-dimensional (3D) analysis.

Objective measurements for rhinoplasty are currently done on 2D photographic analyses. We believe that newer techniques will develop. This is a study to help define new parameters.

Landmarks that are widely used in the literature were used to define the boundaries of these measurements. They comprised certain parts of the nose (tip, dorsum, radix, etc.). Measurements were done on a generic face (GF) 3D model. The model's nose was then morphed using the free, open-source 3D modeling software (Blender) to generate seven different deformed noses and to perform the area and volume measurements.

Each nose with a different type of deformity demonstrated significant area and volume differences. For example, comparing area measurements to GF-Pleasant nose, GF-Snub nose showed a significant difference at the tip (43.3% reduction). Volume measurements were found to be mostly parallel to the area measurements; however, some incongruences were noted.

We show that new area and volume measurements can be reliably developed for 3D-scanned images. These measurements can be utilized and will enrich the facial analysis and evaluation of the outcomes of rhinoplasty.