Development of an anthropomorphic ultrasound face phantom for training in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures

Ultrasound face phantoms are essential tools for cosmetic procedures, providing a realistic and anatomically accurate representation of the human face for training and practice. This research aims to create an ultrasound face phantom to simulate the skin, muscles, arteries and other structures of the face, allowing medical professionals to accurately assess and measure the impact of various treatments and aesthetic procedures using ultrasound imaging. The phantom was made using polyvinyl chloride mixed with additives. The ingredients were chosen to accurately replicate the physical and ultrasound properties of human tissues. To ensure alignment with the biomechanical and ultrasound characteristics of human facial tissues, compressive, tensile, and acoustic measurements were conducted. The ultrasound evaluation of the designed phantom was performed using a carrier frequency of up to 20 MHz. The phantom was 155 × 117 × 120 mm³ in size, weighed 1.1 kg and consisted of the models of a skull, muscle and soft tissues, salivary gland, lymph nodules, and blood vessels. The ultrasound images of the phantom closely mimicked those of the human face, allowing for accurate and realistic simulations. The tissue-mimicking materials showed a Young's modulus ranging from 31 to 35 kPa through compression, a Young's modulus of 80 to 170 kPa through tension, an ultrasound speed of 1440 to 1481 m/s, and an attenuation coefficient of 0.21 to 0.58 dB/cm/MHz, which were consistent with the properties of subcutaneous tissues. The designed face phantom allows for more accurate and realistic training in ultrasound-guided cosmetology. This study successfully developed a highly realistic ultrasound facial phantom with precise mechanical and acoustic properties. These phantoms can serve as a practical tool for training specialists in both diagnostic and surgical procedures, enabling simulations of injections, biopsies, and other minimally invasive interventions with accuracy close to clinical conditions.