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Updated: Jun 8, 2026

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Published on: December 6, 2016
Relationship between surface facial dimensions and upper airway structures in obstructive sleep apnea
Richard W W Lee1, Kate Sutherland, Andrew S L Chan
1Centre for Sleep Health and Research, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Royal North Shore Hospital St Leonards, NSW Australia.
Facial measurements correlate with upper airway anatomy in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These findings suggest facial dimensions can aid in identifying OSA-related anatomical traits.
Area of Science:
- Anatomy
- Sleep Medicine
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to upper airway anatomy.
- Facial structure may influence airway dimensions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between surface facial dimensions and upper airway structures in OSA patients.
- To determine if facial measurements can aid in OSA phenotyping.
Main Methods:
- A cohort study involving 69 OSA patients (apnea-hypopnea index >= 10/h).
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to measure facial dimensions and upper airway soft tissue volumes.
- Pearson correlation analyses were performed.
Main Results:
- Significant correlations were found between various facial dimensions (widths, heights, nose, interocular, intercanthal) and upper airway structures.
- Tongue volume showed strong associations with midface and lower-face width (r=0.70 and r=0.60, respectively).
- Combined facial dimensions significantly predicted tongue volume (r2=0.69).
Conclusions:
- Surface facial dimensions are related to upper airway structures in individuals with OSA.
- Facial measurements show potential for use in the anatomical phenotyping of OSA.
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