Facial Contour Research Articles

Immediate Reconstruction With Autologous Temporoparietal Fascia After Enucleation of Infected or Extruded Alloplastic Nasal Implants.

Simultaneous reconstruction after removal of nasal silicone implants was published as diced, autologous rib and ear auricular cartilages, and each had their shortcomings. Temporoparietal fascial grafts were used for facial and nasal contouring, vascularized tissue coverage, and augmentation the nose, lip. The temporoparietal fascia graft may be considered for in-time replacement of allografts and remaining bulkiness. From 2006 until 2008, the temporoparietal fascial graft was used in 20 referred patients with nasal allografts in a medical center. The female-to-male ratio is 17:3. The mean age is around 32.6 years old. All the patients refused disfigurement after the removal of the implants for at least 3 months. All the patients were followed up for 5 years. All patients recovered within 1 to 2 weeks. The nasal skin envelop was preserved or healed. There was neither graft exposure, nor recurred infection. The procedure is a useful method of eliminating inflammatory squeals. The temporoparietal fascial graft used, was able to bridge the 3-month gap without the implant. The smooth nasal dorsum skin was regained with adequate nasal projection. All patients were followed up in plastic surgery clinics without recurrence. There are no reports in the English literature of the use of temporoparietal fascial grafts to treat nasal implant infection. The temporoparietal fascial graft is a simple and reliable method to provide thin, broad, pliable, easy neovascularized, adequate coverage, contour, and bulk on the cartilage dorsum of the nose, an inconspicuous donor site, consistency, and minimal resorption.

Structural Aesthetic Treatment With the Hyaluronic Acid Filler VYC-25L: Global Expert Considerations for Safe and Effective Long-Term Outcomes.

VYC-25L is a robust, structural hyaluronic acid (HA) filler designed for facial volumizing, lifting, and contouring. It was first approved in 2019. A group of doctors with various specialties, who have used VYC-25L extensively since it first became available in their countries (3-5 years), share clinical experience and guidance on optimal use. VYC-25L has a unique rheological and physicochemical profile that provides elevated lift capacity and enhanced projection, significant moldability immediately after injection, high levels of tissue integration, reversibility with hyaluronidase, and a long duration of clinical effects-typically lasting at least 24 months. The properties of VYC-25L have created new possibilities for nonsurgical facial medical aesthetics. However, as with any novel product, it is important that injectors recognize how best to use it for the benefit of patients. When first utilizing VYC-25L, it is advisable to start with the chin and jawline to gain familiarity with the gel characteristics before moving into other facial areas, and to consider splitting treatment over two or more sessions. Attention must also be given to injection volume, with less product typically required with VYC-25L compared to other fillers with similar indications. Key principles of good practice should be followed, including appropriate patient selection and pretreatment education, suitable choice of injection device and plane, aseptic technique, slow and careful administration method, and sufficient posttreatment follow-up. By adhering to these principles, VYC-25L can produce natural-looking and highly durable outcomes without substantial safety concerns.

Effect of Facial Acupuncture Stimulation: Magnetic Resonance Imaging-Based Masseter Muscle Volume Analysis and Questionnaire Evaluation

Abstract Background Cosmetic acupuncture may improve wrinkles, swelling, sagging, and facial asymmetry and may lift facial contours. Objectives To investigate the impact of cosmetic acupuncture on masseter muscle volume and its implications for facial aesthetics Methods We included 10 apparently healthy adult women (average age, 50.3 ± 6.45 years) and performed acupuncture once a week for 8 weeks. Magnetic resonance imaging was conducted before acupuncture stimulation and 3 days after the treatment. The collected image data were analyzed using ZioCube software (ZioSoft Co., Ltd., Tokyo). Before and after the intervention, two evaluators measured the masseter muscle volume thrice each and calculated the average value. Results The average total volume of the left and right masseter muscles decreased from 40.73 ± 8.2 cm3 to 37.81 ± 8.57 cm3 after cosmetic acupuncture, a significant reduction of 2.92 ± 2.48 cm3 (7.37%, p < 0.05). All 10 subjective evaluation items showed significant decreases, particularly in facial sagging, contour, and asymmetry, confirming aesthetic improvements and psychological satisfaction among participants. Cosmetic acupuncture reduced masseter muscle volume, leading to noticeable aesthetic benefits. Conclusions Acupuncture stimulation at acupoints around the masseter muscle can reduce the muscle volume due to muscle relaxation. The improvement in subjective evaluation and changes and decreases in masseter muscle shape enable the attainment of facial contour aesthetics, contributing to the evidence in support of cosmetic acupuncture.

Zygomatic Implant Perforated Flap vs Fibula Osseous Flap Maxillary Reconstruction

This cohort study assesses the potential differences in facial contour and patient-reported outcomes in zygomatic implant perforated flap compared to fibula free flap maxillary reconstruction.

Clinical Outcomes and Safety Profile of a Dextranomer-Hyaluronic Acid Hybrid Filler: A Case Series Analysis.

The demand for aesthetic treatments targeting the middle and lower face is on the rise, especially because of changes in appearance associated with aging. This study aimed to assess the use of a hybrid filler for sculpting and contouring of the chin, jaw, and malar region. A retrospective analysis was performed on patients who underwent jaw and chin contouring and cheek augmentation using a hybrid filler (hyaluronic acid and dextranomer). The evaluation focused on the naturalness of appearance, enhancement in volume, and the durability of the results, employing a 5-point scale. Both patient satisfaction and physician evaluations were measured using the Likert scale and the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS), respectively. Follow-up with patients extended up to 6 months after treatment, during which any treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were meticulously recorded and analyzed. Nineteen patients participated in the study, receiving an average injection volume of 2.4 ± 0.9 mL to attain the desired outcomes. The evaluation of natural appearance, volumizing effects, and durability at the analyzed time point consistently scored above 4. All 19 patients' aesthetic improvement was evaluated as "very much improved" and "much improved", at the GAIS score. All patients report improvement in their appearance, with 89.5% rating it as "very much improved" or "much improved" on the Likert scale. Only expected AEs such as mild pain and lower swelling were registered. The hybrid filler proved effective and safe for facial contouring, with significant patient satisfaction and minimal adverse effects.

Selective Deep-Lobe Parotidectomy for Benign Parotid Gland Tumors.

Deep-lobe tumors have been shown to possess a significantly thicker capsule with less tumor penetration compared to superficial tumors. Thus, more conservative surgical approaches, rather than aggressive methods, have been proposed for treating benign deep-lobe tumors of the parotid gland. To evaluate the surgical outcomes and oncological safety of selective deep-lobe parotidectomy (SDLP) in patients with benign lesions located in the deep lobe of the parotid gland. Twenty-two patients who underwent SDLP were enrolled in the study. Data on age, sex, tumor size, hospitalization duration, recurrence, cosmetic outcomes, and complications-including facial nerve (FN) impairment, Frey's syndrome (FS), sialocele, first-bite syndrome (FBS), wound infection, hematoma, and seroma -were retrospectively evaluated from hospital records. Facial contour symmetry was rated by each patient using a 0-10 VAS score at least six months post-surgery. Final histopathological examination revealed that the most common tumor was pleomorphic adenoma (PA) (59.1%). Three patients (13%) experienced temporary paralysis of the marginal branch of the FN, with a House-Brackman Grade III, which resolved spontaneously within two months post-surgery. No cases of permanent FN paralysis, FS, FBS, or sialocele were observed in any patients. The mean VAS score for facial contour symmetry was 9.43 ± 0.78. No recurrence were noted in any patients over a median follow-up period of 71.7 ± 21.2 months. SDLP may facilitate the safe surgical removal of benign lesions located in the deep lobe of the parotid gland, with oncological safety, reduced complication rates, and improved cosmetic outcomes.

Restoring Form and Function: The Role of Free Dermal Fat Graft (FDFG) in Post-Parotidectomy Reconstruction. A Systematic Review and meta-analysis of expected outcomes and patient satisfaction.

PurposeThis study aims to assess the outcomes of free dermal fat graft (FDFG) reconstruction following parotidectomy, evaluating both clinical complications and patient satisfaction with the procedure. MethodsWe conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis according to PRISMA guidelines, searching MEDLINE (via PubMed), Scopus, and the Cochrane Library for studies reporting on FDFG outcomes post-parotidectomy. Eligible studies included single-arm studies with data on recipient and donor site complications as well as patient satisfaction. Pooled complication rates were analyzed using a random-effects model to account for study heterogeneity. ResultsA total of 20 studies, representing 922 reconstructions in 919 patients, were included in the analysis. The overall rates of recipient site complications were low, with hematoma observed in 1.31% (95% CI: 0.50-3.34) and infection in 1.84% (95% CI: 0.95-3.53) of cases. The incidence of Frey's syndrome was 1.95% (95% CI: 0.74-5.02), and fat necrosis was noted in 1.74% (95% CI: 0.57-5.23) of patients. Donor site complications were minimal, with hematoma, infection, and seroma rates each below 1%. While there was high variability in satisfaction measures, results indicated favorable patient satisfaction with FDFG outcomes. ConclusionFDFG reconstruction following parotidectomy is a safe and effective method for correcting contour deformities, showing minimal complications and high patient satisfaction. The low incidence of complications, including Frey's syndrome, underscores FDFG as a viable option for facial contour restoration in parotid surgery, providing favorable aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Clinical Validation of Face-Fit Surface-Lighting Micro Light-Emitting Diode Mask for Skin Anti-Aging Treatment.

Photobiomodulation therapy based on micro light-emitting diodes (µLEDs) holds remarkable potential for the beauty industry. Here, a cosmetically effective face-fit surface-lighting µLED mask for skin anti-aging is introduced. The face-conformable mask enables deep tissue treatment through proximal light irradiation, with a 3D origami structure capable of adapting to complex facial contours with closed adherence. A blister-assisted laser transfer achieves rapid and accurate µLEDs transfer at a high throughput of 50 chips per second, facilitating a mass-producible and large-area process. Finally, clinical trials demonstrate significant improvements in elasticity, sagging, and wrinkles across six facial areas, with a maximum enhancement of 340% in deep skin elasticity of the perioral area compared to the conventional LED mask group.

Dynamic three-dimensional facial topography in pediatric facial palsy: Understanding asymmetrical facial contours

BackgroundObjective assessment of facial movements remains pivotal for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term monitoring of patients with facial palsy (FP). This study aims to utilize curvature analysis in pediatric patients with and without FP to define facial contours and to quantify three-dimensional (3D) excursion during smile. MethodsPediatric patients with and without FP had 3D motion capture acquired from rest to maximum smile positions. 3D curvature analysis was performed with a custom MATLAB algorithm. A 40-vertex “smile curve” along the nasolabial fold-cheek-orbit contour was extracted from each patient-specific 3D mesh hemiface. This allowed quantification of excursion and asymmetry for affected vs. unaffected sides in FP patients, and comparison with controls. ResultsTwelve FP (mean 12.5yr., range 5-18) and 12 control (mean 12.1yr., range 5-18) patients were analyzed. Differences in facial contour are intensified during animation, especially in the nasolabial fold, cheek, and periorbital regions of interest and the smile curve which links them. Mean excursion differed significantly between the FP and control groups in all regions of interest (p < 0.0001). ConclusionsCurvature analysis provides insight into the unexplored relationship of the 3D morphological dynamics of the concavity and convexity of the face, to add to the understanding of this complex condition. The magnitude of asymmetry between a FP patient’s affected vs. unaffected smile curve excursion, and comparison to the control group, could allow surgical treatment to be tailored to an individual patient’s dynamic anatomy by identifying and quantifying facial region-specific asymmetry.

Ultrasonographic study and anatomical guidelines for botulinum neurotoxin injection into the parotid gland.

Benign enlargement of the parotid gland hypertrophy results in a bulky lateral facial contour and esthetic appearance. This study aimed to determine the depth from the skin surface to the parotid fascia, which encompasses the parotid gland. The anatomical properties of the parotid glands were evaluated in 40 patients using ultrasonography. An up-to-date understanding of the localization of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) injection based on anatomy could lead to better localization of the injection into the parotid gland through morphological measurements using data previously published from cadaveric studies. Measurement using the otobasion inferius as a landmark revealed parotideomasseteric fascia thickness averaging 4-6 mm from the skin surface, with the parotid gland extending approximately 15 mm anteriorly. Analysis showed a 3-7 mm thickness range, indicating an optimal injection depth for safety and efficacy in BoNT procedures. Utilizing the otobasion inferius as an anatomical landmark offers a practical approach for measuring parotideomasseteric fascia thickness, addressing cadaveric study limitations. These guidelines aim to maximize the effects of BoNT therapy, which can be useful in clinical settings, by minimizing its deleterious effects.

Long-term Follow-up of Secondary Reconstruction of Facial Paralysis and Depressive Deformities After Subtotal Temporal Bone Resection.

Subtotal temporal bone resection (STBR) frequently results in facial paralysis and depression, making reconstruction challenging due to significant tissue loss. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a procedure designed for simultaneous smile and soft tissue reconstruction after STBR. The authors included 3 patients who underwent latissimus dorsi (LD) neuromuscular flap combined with adipose flap transfer after STBR at the Tokyo Medical and Dental University Hospital between 2010 and 2016. Among these patients, 2 had facial vessels unsuitable for anastomosis due to prior neck dissection, and their masseteric nerves were unavailable for neurorrhaphy due to STBR. The thoracodorsal nerve was coaptated to the contralateral facial nerve in all patients and to the ipsilateral masseter nerve in one patient. Follow-up periods ranged from 7 to 13 years, with all patients achieving spontaneous smiles within 12 months post-surgery. Although depressive deformities improved, long-term follow-up revealed buccal muscle bulging due to unstable LD muscle fixation from a zygomatic arch defect caused by STBR. Revision surgeries, including muscle refixation with a tensor fasciae lata graft, muscle reduction, eyebrow lifting, blepharoplasty, and adipose tissue repositioning, were performed as needed. Ultimately, all patients achieved satisfactory facial contours and spontaneous smiles. This study demonstrates that free LD muscle with adipose flap transfer is effective for post-STBR reconstruction. However, detailed surgical planning and multistage reconstruction are often necessary due to the complexities involved.

Quantification of facial symmetry in orthognathic surgery: A novel approach integrating 3D contour maps and hyper-dimensional computing

This study aimed to enhance the evaluation of facial symmetry crucial for planning and assessing outcomes of orthognathic surgery (OGS). An innovative approach combining three-dimensional (3D) facial contour lines with hyperdimensional (HD) computing was developed for this purpose. Data were collected using 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital from 2016 to 2021. A comprehensive dataset was compiled, including images from 150 normal individuals and 2500 patients, totaling 5150 preoperative and postoperative facial images. A machine learning model was trained to analyze these images, and 3D contour data were used to create a facial symmetry quantification system with HD computing. Additionally, 3D CBCT data from 200 patients before and after OGS were retrospectively reviewed for clinical application. The developed facial symmetry algorithm demonstrated an overall accuracy of 84.1 %. Postoperative facial symmetry scores improved significantly, with a mean score increase of 53 %, from 2.40 to 3.63. The study culminated in the creation of a web-based system that leverages HD computing and 3D contour mapping to automate facial symmetry assessment. This system offers a user-friendly interface for rapid and accurate evaluations, facilitating better communication between clinicians and patients.

Parotid Gland Suspension Combined with Rhytidectomy to Recontour the Lower Face and Neck Enlargement Caused by Benign Parotid Hypertrophy.

Lower face and neck aging and facial shape changes are usually caused by soft tissue descent. During lower face and neck enlargement, parotid hypertrophy is an important influence factor of morphologic changes in the periauricular regions. Most plastic surgery techniques greatly improve the shape of the lower face and neck, but ignore the manipulation of the parotid gland. We aimed to resolve the lower face and neck enlargement caused by parotid hypertrophy. Thus, we performed parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy to improve the lower face and neck contour. This retrospective study recruited 22 patients who underwent parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy from 2012 to 2020. The evaluation of patient outcomes was performed by selecting items from the FACE-Q scale. Surgical procedures involved parotid gland exposure and parotid fascia suspension. Patient-perceived age appraisal indicated a younger appearance with follow-ups for approximately 3-10year after the surgery (mean ± standard deviation - 5.53 ± 3.67). Patients had a high satisfaction level for facial appearance (67.15 ± 16.84), lower face (74.69 ± 21.22), and contour of the parotid gland areas of the neck (65.76 ± 23.62). The lower face and neck contours were narrowed and tightened. The parotid gland area showed a remarkable improvement after surgery. Parotid gland suspension combined with rhytidectomy obtained an outstanding improvement. This method can achieve a better lower face and neck contour, especially in patients with benign parotid hypertrophy or lower face and neck enlargement in periauricular regions. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

A Unified Approach to Facial Contours and Volume Correction: The Role of the Cheek and the Chin.

Facial proportions and contours influence perceptions of beauty and youthfulness. In particular, the shape and definition of the midface and lower face impact the overall appearance of the face. This review provides anatomical evidence to support a holistic approach to facial analysis and rejuvenation that starts with assessment and treatment of the midface and lower face to create an aesthetically desirable facial balance. The cheek and chin can be considered "anchors" or starting points within full-face treatment because of the noticeable impact of their treatment on the definition and contour of the entire face. Age-related changes in the cheek and chin affect overall facial appearance and can produce unintended facial emotional attributes such as looking tired, angry, or sad. Patients seek facial aesthetic treatment typically for a global improvement such as revitalization or genderization of facial features. Best practices in aesthetics have evolved from treatment of individual areas to a holistic paradigm that uses multimodal therapy to improve overall facial emotional attributes. Hyaluronic acid fillers are useful for volume replacement and smoothing abrupt transitions that develop with age throughout the midface, chin, and jaw. A combination of hyaluronic acid filler for volume restoration and sodium deoxycholate and/or onabotulinumtoxinA for volume reduction where appropriate may optimize lower facial contour. This review highlights the importance of facial angles and contours as well as the significance of panfacial assessments and treatment, focusing on the relationships within areas of the face, specifically the midface and lower face, to optimize results.

A Novel Approach for Improving Midface Aesthetics: A Pilot Study.

Asian individuals often seek solutions to address midface depression and enhance nasal alar base morphology to achieve Western facial aesthetics. Current treatment options, including injections and invasive procedures, have limited efficacy and safety. To address these challenges, we introduced the "modified A-10 surgery," which integrates the Point A-Koji method, titanium plates, and artificial dermis insertion. The efficacy of the modified A-10 surgery was illustrated using a case study of a 22-year-old woman. Surgical planning was based on dental cone-beam computed tomography data, with lateral cephalometric radiographs used to determine the titanium plate dimensions. The surgery involved customized plate alignment, fixation, and artificial dermis insertion. The modified A-10 surgery substantially improved facial aesthetics and structural parameters. Facial convexity increased from 15.5 degrees to 23.2 degrees, enhancing the 3-dimensionality. The nasolabial angle shifted from 91.9 degrees to 110.2 degrees, achieving the desired mouth projection. Other measurements, such as the E-line to the lower lip and the distance from point A to the subnasal point, contributed to refined aesthetics. The nasal alar base thickness increased by 2.2 mm (19.5%), correcting the depression. The modified A-10 surgery represents a minimally invasive and comprehensive solution for midface depression and nasal alar base enhancement. By combining the Point A-Koji method, titanium plates, and artificial dermis insertion, this surgery successfully achieved improved facial aesthetics and contours. The results validate its potential as a long-term solution, with implications for antiaging interventions and promising avenues for future research.

Three-dimensional Analysis of Lifting Effects after High-intensity Focused Ultrasound (Ultraformer-MPT) across Seven Facial Aesthetic Units Considering SonoAnatomy.

This investigation delves deep into the lifting degree for each area of noninvasive facial rejuvenation through high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU). The study meticulously examines the lifting effects of HIFU treatment across seven distinct facial aesthetic-units, using advanced three-dimensional scanner analysis. The study examined a cohort of 50 patients treated with HIFU. Pre- and immediate posttreatment evaluations were conducted using three-dimensional scanner analysis, allowing for precise quantification of lifting effects across seven aesthetic units. Treatment protocols were tailored to leverage five cartridges with micropulsed mode options, optimizing outcomes based on sonographic anatomy. The forehead was lifted by 1.24 mm; crow's feet, 2.25; malar region, 2.46; posterior cheek, 3.40; jowl, 2.90; mandible, 3.09; and neck, 3.53. The forehead showed a lift of 1.24 mm, attributed to the thin tissue requiring a cautious approach to avoid discomfort. A lift of 2.25 mm in the crow's feet area demonstrated the efficacy of HIFU in addressing fine lines and wrinkles. Significant lift of 2.47 mm in the malar region highlights HIFU's effectiveness in addressing mid-face laxity and restoring volume to the cheeks. The most substantial lift of 3.38 mm in the posterior cheek underscores targeted energy application for enhanced lifting and contouring. Notable lifting effect of 2.90 mm in the jowl area benefits sagging along the jawline, refining facial contour. Lift of 3.10 mm in the mandible shows improvement of lower facial laxity, defining the jawline. The highest lift of 3.55 mm in the neck region addresses laxity and sagging for a defined neck profile.

Enhanced Transconjunctival Lower Blepharoplasty: A Novel Method for Intraorbital Fat Transposition and Stabilization.

The evolution of lower blepharoplasty has shifted from simply removing of orbital septum fat to smoothing of the lid-cheek junction through fat repositioning. This paper adopts a novel technique to transpose and stabilize intraorbital fat during transconjunctival lower blepharoplasty. The tear trough and nasal alar base were filled to correct the pouch while ensuring the blood supply of the fat flap. Between September 2019 and June 2022, 104 patients aged between 22 and 49 who underwent bilateral fat flap transposition-nasal alar base filling lower blepharoplasty were selected. The surgical results were assessed by non-operative plastic surgeons according to the Hirmand grading system. Moreover, a self-satisfaction survey was conducted and patients were followed up for at least 6months to evaluate any complications and surgical outcomes. A high-frequency ultrasound imaging system was used to assess the degree of filling of the tear trough and nasal alar base. All 104 patients were followed up for at least 6months. The postoperative Hirmand grade was 0 for 96 out of 104 (92.3%) patients. In terms of self-satisfaction assessment, there were 92 out of 104 (88.5%) patients reported satisfaction. Dermatologic ultrasound showed no obvious gaps 6months after surgery. Transconjunctival fat flap transposition combined with nasal alar base filling during lower blepharoplasty has been shown to have a positive postoperative effect and high patient satisfaction. This procedure can preserve the blood supply of the fat flap, reduce the rates of fat absorption and denaturation, and improve facial contour, resulting in a satisfactory repairing effect. This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .

A full-face contouring using micro-autologous fat transplantation (MAFT)-gun technique in Vietnamese population

IntroductionMicro-autologous fat transplantation (MAFT)-gun technique is applied to accurately deliver small fat parcels to multiple fat layers in varied facial sites. Our study presented surgical and clinical outcomes of the MAFT-gun technique for full face contouring. MethodsFrom 01/2021 to 06/2023, 31 healthy participants undergoing fat grafting by MAFT-gun technique for volumization of their full face at our hospital were included. Data on fat volume grafted in different facial sites, complications, and satisfaction rate (%) were collected and analyzed. ResultsThe fat volumes grafted over the left and right cheek were 10.3 ± 0.31ml and 10.2 ± 0.30ml. The forehead and temples demanded lower fat volume by 9.8 ± 0.23ml and 4.5 ± 0.21ml. A small fat volume was required for the nasolabial fold, the tear trough, and the infraorbital areas, by 2.2 ± 0.11ml, 1.9 ± 0.10ml, and 1.4 ± 0.11ml. The fat volumes for the nasolabial fold and the tear trough were significantly different between young and old people. No complications including infection, necrosis, or vascular injury were noted. At the end of the follow-up, 26 patients (83.9%) expressed their satisfaction after the procedure. ConclusionThe MAFT-gun technique is safe and effective for full-face autologous fat grafting. Commercial closed-system processors could be an effective alternative to centrifugation for fat processing. The procedure contributed to the improvement of facial hollowness and brought a more attractive and satisfied appearance to people even after 12 months postoperatively.

Semaglutide “Ozempic” Face and Implications in Cosmetic Dermatology

ABSTRACTBackgroundSemaglutide, a glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist, has been utilized for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. Recently, it has gained popularity for its ability to aid in weight loss. However, rapid weight loss induced by semaglutide has been shown to lead to noticeable facial volume loss and the appearance of a prematurely aged face referred to as “Ozempic face.” As this term gains more popularity and increasingly more nondiabetic patients seek rapid weight loss options, there is growing concern among patients and healthcare providers regarding using semaglutide for weight loss as it may have a negative impact on facial esthetics.ObjectiveThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the semaglutide face phenomenon associated with GLP‐1 agonist use for the treatment of obesity.MethodsA comprehensive search on PubMed was conducted to identify the available information related to semaglutide regarding Ozempic face. The search was conducted using a combination of keywords, including “semaglutide,” “semaglutide face,” and “Ozempic face.”Results“Semaglutide face” is recognized as having similar characteristics to a naturally occurring aging face. However, the characteristics of an Ozempic face occur in people much younger than what is seen with the natural aging process. While some believe that this phenomenon is attributed to acute weight loss at a faster rate than normal, many physicians argue that the semaglutide face phenomenon is more likely to occur with the amount of weight lost overall rather than whether that individual used a semaglutide medication to achieve the weight reduction or not. Overall, the semaglutide face phenomenon is characterized by elastin and collagen loss, fat and muscle volume loss, and excessive sagging skin.ConclusionsThe semaglutide face phenomenon highlights the esthetic implications of using semaglutide for the promotion of accelerated weight loss. While this term is not medically recognized, the hollow or sunken look following rapid weight loss sheds light on the effect of semaglutide in facial fat redistribution and volume loss. The metabolic changes induced by GLP‐1 agonists can impact adipose and muscle tissue, which can lead to changes in facial contour and overall appearance. While semaglutide‐induced facial changes may resemble signs of premature aging, they are distinct in their rapid onset and association with significant weight loss. Individuals experiencing semaglutide face have treatment options available depending on their own treatment goals.

A Fast Face Changing Method Adaptable to Various Postures

Image face-changing technology is influenced by skin color and posture. After changing faces, the contour information or skin color information of the user's face will be lost, resulting in low similarity between the changed image and the user's face in the source image. This paper introduces a rapid face-changing method that can adapt to various poses. Regardless of whether the facial poses in the source image and template image differ significantly, this method can retain the facial contours and skin tone in the user's source image without deformation, resulting in a high similarity between the transformed image and the face in the source image. Additionally, it offers low computational complexity, quick processing speed, and a small amount of computational effort.