Morphological Classification of the Zygomatic Regions in Young Chinese Han Males and Females Based on a Simulated Moiré Pattern

Abstract

AbstractThe complex curved contours of the zygomatic regions are difficult to analyze. Therefore, a better evaluation medium must be developed. We aimed to examine and summarize the morphological characteristics of the zygomatic region by using a moiré pattern map and computer algorithm. In this cross-sectional study, we collected three-dimensional images of the facial contours of 251 Han Chinese youth and established a morphological moiré map database. Clustering analysis using a computer algorithm was applied to obtain the zygomatic morphologies for classification. Aesthetic evaluation was performed to summarize the characteristics of the zygomatic types and provide reference for the preoperative morphological design of the midface. Zygomatic regions were morphologically classified into five types. Each type had its typical feature in the moiré pattern map. The moiré stripes in the left zygomatic region formed an “Ω” shape outward and downward in type 1, and they tended to be diagonal like “\\\” in type 2, smoothly curved like “)))” in type 3, vertical like “|||” in type 4, and diagonal like “///” in type 5. The aesthetic evaluation outcome indicated that the integrally flat zygoma (type 4) was more aesthetically pleasing among males, and the integrally prominent zygoma (type 3) was more aesthetically pleasing among females. Five morphological contour types of the zygoma were classified among the Chinese Han males and females based on the simulated moiré pattern. This morphological classification would aid in preparing a guide for clinical diagnosis and surgical planning.