Limits in the Perception of Facial Symmetry-A Prospective Study

Area of Science:

• Aesthetics
• Facial surgery
• Perception psychology

Background:

• Facial symmetry significantly influences perceived attractiveness.
• Objective assessment of facial symmetry aids therapy planning.
• Debate exists on whether complete symmetry is less attractive than slight asymmetry.

Purpose of the Study:

• Determine perception thresholds for facial symmetry.
• Investigate the relationship between asymmetry values and perceived attractiveness.
• Clarify if perfectly symmetrical faces are less attractive.

Main Methods:

• Digitized 50 faces (25 male, 25 female) using 3D scanning.
• Calculated asymmetry values and manipulated symmetry levels.
• Collected ratings for symmetry, attractiveness, and health from 50 raters (medical professionals and laypersons) using visual analog scales (VAS).

Main Results:

• Strong negative correlation between symmetry ratings and asymmetry values (rho = -0.78).
• Inability to distinguish symmetry in highly asymmetrical or highly symmetrical faces.
• Medical professionals rated symmetry and attractiveness higher than laypersons.

Conclusions:

• Evidence suggests thresholds in facial symmetry perception.
• No indication that completely symmetrical faces are less attractive.
• Maxillofacial surgery should prioritize maximum possible symmetry, accepting minor deviations.