Establishing Convergent Validity of the FACE-Q Aesthetics Module Scales.

Summary

In an online international cohort (n=1259), multiple FACE-Q Aesthetics appearance scales showed adequate convergent validity against MERZ patient-reported scales, whereas Face Overall and Cheeks did not. This supports the use of specific FACE-Q scales for evaluating outcomes of minimally invasive facial aesthetic treatments.

Key Findings

• Online international sample of 1,259 adults undergoing minimally invasive facial aesthetics completed 11 FACE-Q and 12 MERZ scales.
• FACE-Q scales for lines (multiple facial regions), lower face/jawline, and lips showed adequate convergent validity with MERZ patient-reported scales.
• FACE-Q Face Overall and Cheeks did not reach predefined thresholds for convergent validity.

Clinical Implications

Use FACE-Q appearance scales with demonstrated convergent validity (e.g., lines, lower face/jawline, lips) for outcome assessment after minimally invasive facial procedures; interpret Face Overall and Cheeks scales with caution or seek additional validation.

Limitations

• Online, self-selected cohort may introduce selection bias
• Cross-sectional design without clinical outcomes or longitudinal responsiveness

Future Directions

Prospective studies assessing responsiveness, minimal clinically important differences, and validation versus clinician/observer-rated outcomes across diverse populations.