Korean J Orthod.  2006 Dec;36(6):434-441.

Level of perception of changed lip protrusion and asymmetry of the lower facial height

• Kim KS
• Kim YJ
• Lee KH
• Kim YH
• Kook YA

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
While one of the most prevailing motivations for seeking orthodontic treatment is to achieve good facial esthetics, understanding the level of a person's perception to the changes that have occurred on the face after orthodontic treatment is critical to the process of orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.
METHODS
40 students attending art school participated in determining the level of their perception of changed lip position and facial asymmetry. Computer-graphic frontal face and facial profile photographs with balanced proportions were used to evaluate the level of a participant's perception of the changes in facial asymmetry and in lip position.
RESULTS
Change of lip position over 2 mm and over a 3 mm change of facial asymmetry was perceived significantly.
CONCLUSION
The results indicated that at least a 2 mm change of lip position was needed to be perceived after orthodontic treatment. The level of perception of the change in facial asymmetry was lower than that of the change in lip position. Information about facial changes given prior to the evaluation enhanced the level of perception.

Keyword

Facial esthetics; Lip position; Asymmetry; Perception

MeSH Terms

Diagnosis
Esthetics
Facial Asymmetry
Humans
Lip*