The progression of facial shape with aging is the subject of various theories and assumptions but remains poorly understood. 3D facial averaging is an analysis technique that combines multiple 3D facial scans to create a single, archetypal average face model, capitalizing on the capabilities of the three-dimensional camera. This is achieved by establishing a consistent landmark or mesh correspondence across all faces and then calculating the average position for each point or vertex. 3D facial averaging can be used to identify reproducible points on the otherwise featureless expanses of the cheeks. By doing so one can follow the flow of skin with aging, which has not been visualized before in such a manner. This process can be used to create generic representations for research and has clinical implications.
How 3D facial averaging works, examples of analyses, and possible applications and uses of the technique will be discussed, including clinical implications for craniofacial and facial reconstructive surgery.
Talking Points:
1. 3D facial averaging is a powerful analysis tool that can be used to understand the progression of facial shape throughout human aging.
2. Using 3D facial averaging has strong clinical implications within the plastic and reconstructive surgery field, with potential to improve preoperative planning, and therefore improving surgical precision and outcomes.