Harmonized profiloplasty using balanced angular profile analysis

Abstract

To evaluate outcomes of aesthetic facial plastic surgery objectively the authors developed a photogrammetric profile analysis method, which they call "balanced angular profile analysis" (BAPA). To develop standards and ways to determine the conformation of various soft tissue segments analytically, 19 mean angular values acquired from the photographs of 71 famous female models (53 Eastern models and 18 Western models) were standardized to provide reference data (recommended aesthetic mean angles [RAMA]), which contain some of the common features and differences between ethnic groups and races. On the basis of the data prepared from angular profile analyses of these photographs, the authors apply their developed method in a practical way to the pre- and post-operative photographs of patients. By using the data provided by BAPA, the clinician can identify delicate profile problems correctly, perform appropriate aesthetic operations, and thus produce better aesthetic results. The authors' harmonized and balanced angular profile analysis can provide surgeons with a way of determining the conformational problems associated with various soft tissue segments of the face. It also offers aesthetic plastic surgeons reference information concerning the creation of an attractive face during the first patient consultation. The authors hope that their straightforward method of profile analysis will provide facial plastic surgeons with a simple tool for profile analysis and surgical planning designed to create an attractive face.