Modern Morphing Technology in Facial Reconstruction

Abstract

For more than 100 years, the use of direct measurement and patient photography has been the gold standard method for the evaluation and documentation in plastic and reconstructive surgery and other medical specialties. Despite being considered an objective appraisal of the size, position, projection, and location of the different anatomical structures on the face, their accuracy, reliability, and interpersonal variation may be not considered ideal or sufficiently precise. Three-dimensional surface imaging (3DSI) was recently introduced as a technique for refining surgical planning, improving patient education, and enhancing follow-up in aesthetic procedures; however, its application in the facial reconstructive arena has been overlooked.