Linear photogrammetric analysis of the adult soft tissue facial profile

ABSTRACT

The objective of this study was to assess the soft tissue profiles and determine gender dimorphism in the young adult population of Pakistani origin, working in the Children Hospital in different capacities. This cross sectional descriptive study included 32 subjects including 16 males and 16 females. Age of these subjects ranged from 18-25 years. The sampling comprised random selection of the subjects. The method involved photogrammetric analysis with linear horizontal and vertical measurements made on standard photographic records taken in natural head position. Photocopies of the photographs with clearly identified landmarks were used for measurements. A total of21 variables were used in the study comprising 11 horizontal and 10 vertical linear measurements. Amongst horizontal linear measurements, gender dimorphism was seen in seven out of eleven variables. Out of the ten vertical variables only two variables showed sexual dimorphism. Facial depth, nasal depth, labial and chin areas showed sexual dimorphism in most of horizontal measurements. However length of the mid face, nose, upper and lower lips as well as height of the chin and nasal tip were found greater in females, reflecting vertical growth tendency