Analysis of the Columellar-Labial Angle in Perioral Aging

Abstract

Abstract Background The young face presents a convex and rounded aspect; with aging, this changes to a more concave and flattened aspect, with the angles of the face undergoing changes through soft tissue repositioning and bone remodeling. The columellar-labial angle is one of the features that change. Objectives The objective of the present study was to analyze the columellar-labial angle at different stages of adult life and assess its contribution to facial changes during aging. Methods We analyzed a database (December 2017-March 2018) of 722 female patients, aged 21 to 88 years, and obtained anthropometric measurements of the columellar-labial angle with a Canfield Vectra 3D image analysis system. Our database originates from a private clinic where all patients were registered and photographed. Results Our analysis showed a decrease in the columellar-labial angle, mainly observed from patients aged 60 years and older. This decrease can be explained by the absorption of body structures that occurs during aging. Conclusions The columellar-labial angle decreases with age, and this finding may provide a better understanding of the transformation that occurs with aging. Obtaining a clearer view of the changes that occur in the face will improve treatments for facial rejuvenation, either conservative or surgical, and provide a basis for future studies and knowledge expansion. Level of Evidence: 4