Assessing the Upper Face: Forehead and Periorbital Region

The upper face (forehead, brows, temples, and periorbital region) plays a central role in overall facial expression and perceived age. Treatment approaches must evolve beyond traditional Western norms to accommodate ethnic and cultural diversity in anatomy and aesthetic preferences.

To review current knowledge of upper-face morphology and aging patterns across diverse populations and provide guidance for culturally sensitive assessment and rejuvenation.

An expert panel of dermatologists, oculoplastic, and plastic surgeons reviewed anthropometric data, literature on ethnic and cultural variations, and clinical experience to synthesize region-specific aging trends and treatment strategies emphasizing noninvasive modalities.

Distinct anatomic and aging patterns were identified among populations of African, East Asian, South Asian, Central and South American, Middle Eastern, and Northern European descent. Key variations include differences in orbital depth, brow position, eyelid morphology, and skin characteristics. Cultural preferences (e.g. East Asian desire for gentle convexity, Middle Eastern emphasis on brow definition) further inform individualized treatment planning. Minimally invasive treatments can restore balance and rejuvenate the upper face when tailored to these differences.

Effective upper-face assessment requires both anatomical precision and cultural awareness. Clinicians should integrate ethnic variability and evolving beauty ideals into personalized treatment strategies to achieve natural, harmonious outcomes across diverse patient populations.