The "jaguar's eye" as a new beauty trend? Age-related effects in judging the attractiveness of the oblique eye axis

Category of upper eyelid morphology and the preferred double eyelid shape in Asians according to questionnaire survey

BACKGROUND

The morphological classification of the upper eyelid in Asian people is complex and diverse and usually not consistent with what we know well.

AIMS

To improve the classification of upper eyelid morphology and investigate the preferred double eyelid shape by Asian people.

METHODS

An investigation of 640 patients' preferences for double eyelid shape was conducted, and the pre- and post-operative effects were assessed. The shapes of the natural eyelids of 247 people (485 eyes) who provided real photographs of the eyelids were counted. The chi-square test was used to analyze the differences.

RESULTS

There were 10 eyelid shapes: single eyelid, parallel-shaped double eyelid, fan-shaped double eyelid, parallel fan-shaped double eyelid, opened fan-shaped double eyelid, crescent-shaped double eyelid, hidden-shaped double eyelid, horizontal-shaped double eyelid, triangle-shaped double eyelid, and multiple-fold eyelid. The difference in the shape of the natural eyelid between males and females was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The most popular eyelid shapes were single eyelid (24.9%), open fan-shaped double eyelid (21.0%), fan-shaped double eyelid (16.3%), and hidden-shaped double eyelid (12.6%). Men and women preferred a parallel fan-shaped double eyelid (18.0%), a parallel-shaped double eyelids (17.0%), and an open fan-shaped double eyelids (18.1%).

CONCLUSIONS

The most popular upper eyelid shapes were single eyelid, open fan-shaped double eyelid, and fan-shaped double eyelid. The parallel fan-shaped, parallel-shaped, and open fan-shaped double eyelid were favored by men and women.

Changes in Cat Facial Morphology Are Related to Interaction with Humans

We aimed to clarify the changes in facial morphology of cats in relation to their interactions with humans. In Study 1, we compared the facial morphology of cats (feral mixed breed, owned domestic mixed breed, and owned domestic purebreds) with that of African wildcats. After collecting 3295 photos, we found that owned domestic cats' noses were significantly shorter than those of African wildcats and feral mixed breed, and there were no significant differences between the latter two. The eye angles were significantly more gradual in owned domestic purebreds than in the other groups. In Study 2, we examined the correlation between facial morphology and years with the owner, and found that the former is not affected by the latter. This suggests that changes in facial morphology are possibly transgenerational changes. The difference in facial morphology between wildcats and owned cats might be caused by domestication, and that between feral cats and owned cats might be due to feralization. In Study 3, we investigated whether cats' facial features affect cuteness ratings. We asked human participants to evaluate the cuteness of cats' face images and found that faces with shorter nose lengths were considered cuter. This suggests that owned domestic cats' facial morphology is preferred by humans.

Vertical enlargement of the palpebral aperture by surgical modification of the lower eyelid: A new cosmetic option for Chinese patients

BACKGROUND

The distinctive features of Oriental eyes are narrow palpebral aperture and upslanting lower eyelid margin, which are not in accordance with modern appreciation of beauty. Although many ophthalmic plastic procedures have been designed to change the characteristic appearance, the methods to enlarge the palpebral aperture by lowering the lower eyelid are limited.

METHODS

A total of 63 Chinese patients received the lowering the lower eyelid procedure from April 2014 to August 2018. The main criteria are patients who have vertically narrow palpebral aperture with or without upslanting lower eyelid shape. But patients who have proptosis or unhealthy lower eyelid elasticity are not suitable for this procedure. The operation is performed by suturing the lower tarsal plate and the infraorbital periosteum together, adjusting the tension of knots to reach the patient's desire for the shape of lower eyelid margin, and finally tightening all the knots.

RESULTS

The lateral lower eyelid margin was lowered and the lateral part of the palpebral aperture was enlarged in all cases (P < 0.01). Only five patients (7.9%) were not fully satisfied because of the partial retraction of the lateral eyelid margin. Minor complications were observed, of which conjunctival chemosis in three patients (4.8%) and conjunctival hemorrhage in two patients (3.2%).

CONCLUSION

Lowering the lower eyelid procedure is an effective and safe approach for patients who desire to smooth the upslanting shape and enlarge the eyes. The strict criteria and careful preoperative evaluations are critical to avoid complications and achieve good outcomes for Chinese patients.

Comparison of Periorbital Anthropometry Between Beauty Pageant Contestants and Ordinary Young Women with Korean Ethnicity: A Three-Dimensional Photogrammetric Analysis

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to investigate the differences in the periorbital anthropometry between national Beauty Pageant Contestants and Ordinary Young Women with Korean ethnicity.

METHODS

Forty-three Beauty Pageant Contestants who were elected for the national beauty contest and forty-eight Ordinary Young Women underwent 3D photography. The authors analyzed 3D photogrammetric measures regarding periorbital soft tissue.

RESULTS

The palpebral fissure width was significantly higher in the Beauty Pageant Contestants than the Ordinary Young Women (27.7 ± 1.2 vs. 26.3 ± 1.6 mm) (p < 0.001). The palpebral fissure height was also significantly higher in the Beauty Pageant Contestants (11.5. ± 1.0 vs. 9.1 ± 1.2 mm) (p < 0.001). The intercanthal width and upper eyelid height were smaller for the Beauty Pageant Contestants (intercanthal width, 34.3 ± 1.86 mm vs. 36.7 ± 3.1 mm; upper eyelid height, 11.5 ± 1.4 mm vs. 13.4 ± 2.3 mm) (p < 0.05). The nasal width and midfacial width were significantly smaller in the Beauty Pageant Contestants (nasal width, 38.0 ± 1.8 vs. 39.5 ± 2.2 mm; midfacial width 144.5 ± 3.9 vs. 146.9 ± 5.2 mm) (p < 0.05). The eyebrow showed significantly different features between the two groups in terms of vertical position in the upper face and the shape of the brow apex. The interpupillary distance, binocular distance, slant of palpebral fissure and width of pretarsal crease showed no significant difference between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Periorbital features in Beauty Pageant Contestants are wide-set eyes, larger palpebral fissure in width and height, relatively small upper eyelid height and intercanthal width, and relatively small nose and facial width compared to normal women. Our anthropometric results can be referable values for Asian eyelid surgery and help surgeons to establish individualized surgical planning.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Art or Science? An Evidence-Based Approach to Human Facial Beauty a Quantitative Analysis Towards an Informed Clinical Aesthetic Practice

BACKGROUND

Patients often seek guidance from the aesthetic practitioners regarding treatments to enhance their 'beauty'. Is there a science behind the art of assessment and if so is it measurable? Through the centuries, this question has challenged scholars, artists and surgeons.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

This study aims to undertake a review of the evidence behind quantitative facial measurements in assessing beauty to help the practitioner in everyday aesthetic practice.

METHODS

A Medline, Embase search for beauty, facial features and quantitative analysis was undertaken.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Inclusion criteria were studies on adults, and exclusions included studies undertaken for dental, cleft lip, oncology, burns or reconstructive surgeries. The abstracts and papers were appraised, and further studies excluded that were considered inappropriate. The data were extracted using a standardised table. The final dataset was appraised in accordance with the PRISMA checklist and Holland and Rees' critique tools.

RESULTS

Of the 1253 studies screened, 1139 were excluded from abstracts and a further 70 excluded from full text articles. The remaining 44 were assessed qualitatively and quantitatively. It became evident that the datasets were not comparable. Nevertheless, common themes were obvious, and these were summarised.

CONCLUSION

Despite measures of the beauty of individual components to the sum of all the parts, such as symmetry and the golden ratio, we are yet far from establishing what truly constitutes quantitative beauty. Perhaps beauty is truly in the 'eyes of the beholder' (and perhaps in the eyes of the subject too).

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE V

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

Lip Attractiveness: A Cross-Cultural Analysis

Background

Perception of beauty is influenced by the individual's geographic, ethnic, cultural, and demographic background. However, objective measurements remain the foundation for aesthetic evaluations. In the quest for to better define "ideal" lip characteristics, this study assumes interdependence between variables such as country of residence, sex, age, occupation, and aesthetic perception.

Objectives

This study will increase surgeons' awareness with respect to different lip size preferences. The provided information might enhance and clarify communication among plastic surgeons and aid to put often quoted "ideal proportions" in context.

Methods

An online survey was designed. Modifiable ranges of lip fullness were achieved via digital alteration, enabling participants to interactively change the shape of a single model's lips. The questionnaire was sent to more than 9000 plastic surgeons and laypeople worldwide. Demographic data were collected and analysis of variance was used to elucidate lip shape preferences.

Results

A total of 1011 responses (14% response rate) from 35 different countries were gathered. Significant differences regarding lip fullness were identified. Surgeons who practice in Asia or non-Caucasian surgeons prefer larger lips, while those in Europe and Caucasians prefer smaller lips. Lastly, laypersons living in Asia prefer the smallest lips.

Conclusions

Country of residence, ethnic background, and profession significantly impact individual lip shape preferences. These findings have implications for patients and surgeons, because differences in aesthetics' preferences can lead to dissatisfaction of patients and surgeons alike. In our increasingly global environment, cultural differences and international variability must be considered when defining new aesthetic techniques, treating patients, and reporting outcomes.

The Benslimane's Artistic Model for Females' Gaze Beauty: An Original Assessment Tool

Background

The aim of this paper is to analyze the aesthetic characteristics of the human females’ gaze using anthropometry and to present an artistic model to represent it: “The Frame Concept.” In this model, the eye fissure represents a painting, and the most peripheral shadows around it represent the frame of this painting. The narrower the frame, the more aesthetically pleasing and youthful the gaze appears.

Materials and Method

This study included a literature review of the features that make the gaze appear attractive. Photographs of models with attractive gazes were examined, and old photographs of patients were compared to recent photographs. The frame ratio was defined by anthropometric measurements of modern portraits of twenty consecutive Miss World winners. The concept was then validated for age and attractiveness across centuries by analysis of modern female photographs and works of art acknowledged for portraying beautiful young and older women in classical paintings.

Results

The frame height inversely correlated with attractiveness in modern female portrait photographs. The eye fissure frame ratio of modern idealized female portraits was similar to that of beautiful female portraits idealized by classical artists. In contrast, the eye fissure frames of classical artists’ mothers’ portraits were significantly wider than those of beautiful younger women.

Conclusion

The Frame Concept is a valid artistic tool that provides an understanding of both the aesthetic and aging characteristics of the female periorbital region, enabling the practitioner to plan appropriate aesthetic interventions.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the A3 online Instructions to Authors. www.springer.com/00266.

Brow archetype preferred by Korean women

The aim of this study is to see which brow archetype is preferred by Korean women. The archetypes were chosen from a literature search, which contain detailed, replicable methods and have diagrams (Westmore, Lamas, Anastasia, Schreiber, and Hwang). A survey was conducted on 300 subjects (group A, 100 female medical students; group B, 100 women who had visited a plastic surgery clinic for periorbital rejuvenation; and group C, 100 women who visited the brow bar). They were asked whether they think there might be a method that yields an ideal brow archetype. In the cases where they said yes, they were asked to choose 1 of the illustrated 5 brow archetypes that they think is ideal. Among the 300 respondents, 232 (77.3%) thought there might be a method to yield an ideal brow archetype, whereas 68 (22.7%) answered they did not. The preference for the brow archetypes was different among the 5 archetypes (P = 0.0001, χ2). Anastasia was the most preferred (44.8%, brow starts on a perpendicular line drawn from the middle of the nostril, arches on a line drawn from the center of the nose through the center of the pupil, and ends on a line drawn from the edge of the corresponding nasal ala through the outer edge of the eye). Anastasia was followed by Lamas (22.0%). In group A, Anastasia (55.7%) was the most preferred, followed by Lamas (26.2%) and Westmore (13.1%). In group B, Anastasia (34.8%) was the most preferred, followed by Lamas (30.3%) and Westmore and Schreiber (both 13.5%). In group C, Anastasia (47.6%) was the most preferred, followed by Hwang (25.5%) and Westmore (11.0%). There was a significant difference (P < 0.001) among the 3 groups. There was a significant correlation between the preference of brow archetype and occupation (P = 0.0033). However, no significant differences were noted for the preference of brow archetype between the age groups of younger than 30 years and older than 30 years (P = 0.1374), level of education (P = 0.3403), marital status (P = 0.541), or monthly income (P = 0.1696, χ2). The result of this study might be useful in facial rejuvenation surgeries as well as in brow esthetics or tattooing of eyebrows.

Eye shape illusions induced by eyebrow positions

We investigated whether the position of the eyebrows influences the perceived shape of the eyes by employing psychophysical measurements. Experiment 1 used arched and straight eyebrows at five different inclinations as stimuli and measured the perceived inclination of the eyes. The results demonstrated that the eyes are perceived to be somewhat inclined in the same direction as the eyebrows. Experiment 2 measured the perceived eye size by manipulating the distance between the eyes and the eyebrows and the curvature of the eyebrows across three levels. The results showed that the lower eyebrows (ie closer to eyes) made the eyes appear larger and the higher eyebrows made the eyes appear smaller, while eyebrow curvature had no effect on perceived eye size. Experiment 3 examined the role of the eye-eyebrow distance in the eye inclination illusion shown in experiment 1. The eye inclination illusion was unaffected by the eye-eyebrow distance, suggesting that the eye inclination illusion and the eye size illusion may involve different kinds of assimilation. These illusions are discussed in terms of face perception and possible practical applications.

The attractive lip: A photomorphometric analysis

BACKGROUND

Throughout literature, there are different parameters defining the ideal shape of the lip and lower third of the face. This study was conducted to clarify what it is that makes lips attractive - and whether there are gender-related differences of an attractive lip and lower third of the face.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Pictures of the lip and chin region of 176 patients were photographed in a standardised way and evaluated by 250 voluntary judges through an internet presentation by means of an analogue Likert scaling system.

RESULTS

We found a significant higher ratio of upper vermillion height/mouth-nose distance in frontal-view images of attractive compared to unattractive female (p < 0.001) and male (p < 0.05) perioral regions. Furthermore, the ratio of upper vermillion height/chin-nose distance was significantly higher in attractive than in unattractive female (p < 0.005) and male (p < 0.05) lip and chin regions. The nasolabial angle was significantly sharper in attractive compared to unattractive female perioral regions (p < 0.001). Moreover, attractive female lip and chin regions showed a wider mentolabial angle compared to unattractive female lip and chin regions (p < 0.05). Comparing men and women, we found that attractive female perioral regions showed a higher ratio of lower vermillion height/chin-mouth distance (p < 0.05) and lower vermillion height/chin-nose distance than attractive male perioral regions (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

We were able to define certain parameters of the lip and lower third of the face that seem to add to the attractivity of female and male individuals and prove that there are gender-related differences in form and shape of an attractive lower third of the face.

A real-life illusion of assimilation in the human face: eye size illusion caused by eyebrows and eye shadow

Does an assimilative illusion like the Delboeuf illusion occur in the human face? We investigated factors that might influence the perceived size of the eyes in a realistic face. Experiment 1 manipulated the position of the eyebrows (high or low), the presence/absence of eye shadow, and the viewing distance (0.6 m or 5 m), then measured the perceived eye size using a psychophysical method. The results showed that low eyebrows (i.e., closer to the eyes) make the eyes appear larger, suggesting that the assimilation of eyes into the eyebrows is stronger when the eye-eyebrow distance is shorter. The results also demonstrated that the application of eye shadow also makes the eyes look larger. Moreover, the effect of eye shadow is more pronounced when viewed from a distance. In order to investigate the mechanism of the eye size illusion demonstrated in Experiment 1, Experiment 2 measured the magnitude of the Delboeuf illusion at a viewing distance of 0.6 m or 5 m, with or without gray gradation simulating the eye shadow that was used in Experiment 1. The experiment demonstrated that the Delboeuf illusion is modulated by viewing distance and gradation in the same way as the eye size illusion. These results suggest that the eye size illusion induced by the eyebrows and the Delboeuf illusion involve the same mechanism, and that eye shadow causes the assimilation of the eyes into itself and enhances assimilation between the eyes and the eyebrows.

The blue-eyes stereotype: do eye color, pupil diameter, and scleral color affect attractiveness?

BACKGROUND

Blue eyes have been the embodiment of attractiveness not only for decades but even for centuries. The primary aim of this study was to determine whether iridal color, particularly color blue, can increase the attractiveness of a person's eye area. As a secondary aim, the study examined the impact of pupil diameter and scleral color on the attractiveness of the eye area.

METHODS

The stimulus material comprised images of the eye areas of 60 women ages 15-65 years. A total of 80 participants rated the attractiveness of each eye area on a 7-point Likert scale and estimated the age of the person. The color values of the iris and sclera were measured. As an additional subsample, 50% of the participants were asked what features of each eye area they found particularly appealing.

RESULTS

Most surprisingly, no correlation was found between iridal color and rated attractiveness. However, the participants mentioned the color blue more often as a positive aspect than other iridal colors. A high inverse correlation was observed between attractiveness of the eye area and age. The larger the pupil diameter and the whiter the scleral color, the lower was the real and perceived age and the higher was the attractiveness.

CONCLUSION

The data showed that the "blue-eyes stereotype" does exist. People consider blue eyes attractive, but in reality, blue is rated as attractive as other iridal colors. Bright scleral color and large pupils positively affect attractiveness because both features are significantly correlated with youthfulness.