Hong Kiwoong, M.D.
Director
SAMSKIN Plastic Surgery, Seoul Korea
On the other hand, some argue that a 3D modelling of the Marquardt mask results in a rather masculine face, far from an ideal female beauty. The golden ratio can be regarded as a mathematical standard of beauty, however, it cannot be applied blindly to preoperative analysis of the face in aesthetic plastic surgery. A more practical standard of attractiveness is needed.
According to David Perrett, Professor of Psychology at University of St. Andrews and head of the Perception Lab in Scotland, the standards of an attractive face can be divided into absolute and relative conditions of physical preferences. Absolute conditions apply to everyone. For example, these may include the horizontal symmetry, how close the face is to aesthetic ideals and what emotions and expressions the face presents, etc. On the other hand, the relative conditions may included similarity (resemblance), difference, and discrepancy of beliefs, etc. These relative conditions result in different preferences of beauty among individuals.
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More closely, Perrett argued that a horizontally symmetric face indicates good health and genetic makeup. It also provides visual stability, which makes it more aesthetically pleasing. Biologically, symmetry and ideal proportions of physical features indicate good health and form. According to Perrett, a composite image averaging ideal physical characteristics are considered more attractive than exceptional and unique features. He also explained that positive emotions and bright, happy countenances complete the absolute conditions of beauty.
As for the relative standard of beauty, we tend to feel drawn to people similar to those closest to us, such as friends, family or people of the same race or from the same region as us. Preferences of certain physical characteristics are shared in the same culture. Women are drawn to manly men and men are attracted to feminine women. Men are strongly drawn to women with childlike features and women considered beautiful have facial features similar to those of a 6-7 year-old.
Lastly, value systems change through societies, times and cultures. Humans have the tendency to resemble the physical appearance of the ruling class. This is due to the inner desire to rise to similar status. Asian women who desire large eyes and a high nose bridge to resemble Caucasians may be an example.
Four conditions of beauty that major theories on facial attractiveness have in common are; 1) youthful appearance, 2) horizontal symmetry, 3) balanced and average proportions and 4) characteristics fitting the age and sex. In other words, the ideal cephalometric proportions and balance, rather than the golden ratio, may create individual beauty.
Fig 2. Ideal facial proportion and line.
-To be continued-
