Facial Anthropometry Study Using Stereophotogrammetry Analysis Among Mozambique Adults.

Abstract

This cross-sectional observational study aimed to establish facial linear and angular measurement values for Mozambique adults and to determine the morphologic differences between sexes and ages using stereophotogrammetry. One hundred and sixty-six Mozambique individuals categorized into 8 groups by age (20-65 y) and sex were assessed. Anthropometric points were marked on the face, and 3D images were captured. Linear and angular measurements were obtained and evaluated. Two-way ANOVA and Tukey's test were used to determine differences among groups and sexes, with significance set at P<0.05. Significant differences in linear and angular measurements were observed between the groups and sexes. Differences were evident in 13 of 15 linear measurements, with higher values observed in men than in women. Women showed higher angular measurements than men in 4 of 6 measurements. Sexual dimorphism was confirmed by significantly higher linear measurements in men and increased angular measurements in women. Morphologic changes with aging included decreased eye width and lip height, increased mouth width, and augmented nose measurements, particularly in men. In addition, the nasolabial angle widened with age, and women exhibited more pronounced facial convexity than men. This study aims to gain insights into the facial metrics of diverse populations and utilize these findings in clinical practice to enhance prosthetic flow and forensic training and develop a comprehensive population database.