Three-dimensional anthropometric analysis of chinese faces and its application in evaluating facial deformity

The aims of this study are to introduce a novel method of 3-dimensional (3D) analysis of the face and to provide normative data of the Chinese face for surgeons.

Fifty men and 50 women were recruited, and a 3D stereophotogrammetry system was used to acquire their facial image data. For each subject, the image was aligned to a unified coordinate system, and coordinate values of 31 facial landmarks were collected. Mean values for each landmark were calculated within genders, and 3D models of both genders were constructed based on the mean values. Subsequently, to evaluate the sexual dimorphism, the models were superimposed. Then, to delineate the shape differences independent of size, the models were normalized and superimposed again. The application of the 3D models was also exemplified by analysis of a subject's facial deformity.

Linear and polyhedron 3D models representing the facial shape were built for both genders. The superimposed models and the absolute differences between each landmark in both genders illustrated the sexual dimorphism of the Chinese face, and the normalized models and relative difference for each landmark also delineated the shape differences independent of size. In addition, a subject's facial deformity was evaluated by referring to the normative 3D facial models.

This study describes a new 3D analysis method for facial morphology. Three-dimensional models representing the facial shape of Chinese subjects were built, and sexual dimorphism was investigated. These would provide useful guidance for facial anthropometry and plastic surgeons in clinical practice.