Background. The upper lip-nose complex contributes significantly to the concept of symmetry and proportion of the face. A study of the morphology and aesthetic preferences of the lip-nose complex will provide a database that will serve as a guide for reconstruction. Subjects and Methods. Hundred Nigerian children participated in this study. Demographic data and standard photographs of the philtral column and nostrils were obtained. Sixty volunteers were recruited to evaluate the photographs. Each volunteer was asked to rank the photographs based on their aesthetic preference. Results. The morphology of the philtral columns was classified into four groups: (1) triangular, (2) concave, (3) flat, and (4) parallel. The nostril shape was also classified into four groups: (1) triangular, (2) round, (3) teardrop, and (4) rectangular. In both genders, the triangular shape of philtral column was the most common. There are significant age differences in the aesthetic rankings of philtral columns and nostril shapes. Conclusion. Our study establishes the basal values for the morphometric and aesthetic parameters of the lip-nose complex of 5- and 6-year-old children in Nigeria. We hope our results and reconstructive surgery will intersect at a point to treat disfigurements of the philtrum and nostrils successfully. 1. Introduction The human face is one of the most attractive parts of the body [1]. It is central to many aspects of social interaction and the visual perception of the face is influenced by a complex combination of various factors such as appearance, expression, and symmetry. Earlier reports [2, 3] have shown that there is a proportional relationship between symmetry and attractiveness, and symmetrical faces are generally perceived as more attractive. The upper lip-nose complex is an important aesthetic facial unit. It contributes significantly to the concept of symmetry, harmony, and proportion of the face [1, 4]. The philtrum is the central unit of the upper lip and plays a key role in the appearance of the lip and nostril [5, 6]. It consists of the dimple, two philtral ridges, the tubercle, and the white roll between the two high points of Cupid’s bow. The philtrum is especially prominent during conversation and facial expression [7]. During labial movement, a dimple is formed, with accentuation of the philtral ridges [5]. The nose is located in the middle of the face and is the most defining feature. Thus, it naturally attracts the gaze of the onlooker [4, 8]. The shape of the nostril is a signature indicating the ethnicity, race, age, and sex [9].
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