Limited Applicability of Neoclassical Facial Canons in Tibetan Youth: 2D Photogrammetry Evaluation.

Summary

In 455 Tibetan young adults, none fully met the 3-section facial canon and most neoclassical canons showed low applicability, with significant sex differences. The findings argue against using traditional canons for cosmetic or surgical planning in this population and support developing population-specific aesthetic standards.

Key Findings

• No participants fully adhered to the 3-section facial canon; lower facial 3-section applicability was 1.5% (men) and 1.3% (women).
• Naso-orbital, naso-oral, and naso-facial canons showed low applicability (e.g., naso-orbital 11.8% men, 34.9% women).
• Upper facial third generally exceeded middle and lower thirds; intercanthal distance exceeded eye fissure length in most subjects; sex differences were significant (P<0.05).

Clinical Implications

Avoid relying on neoclassical canons for Tibetan patients; incorporate population-specific anthropometric norms and consider 3D imaging to guide cosmetic/surgical planning.

Limitations

• 2D photogrammetry may not capture 3D morphological nuances.
• Generalizability limited to young Tibetan adults; other age groups or ethnicities not assessed.

Future Directions

Establish 3D population-specific facial norms and integrate them into surgical planning tools; assess applicability across broader age ranges and ethnicities.