Exploring Optimal Photographic Parameters for Standardized Facial Aesthetics Analysis

The main objective of this research is to identify the focal length that allows the most accurate and reproducible 2D assessment of facial aesthetics, without introducing significant distortion. Ultimately, this will enable the establishment of a standardized photography protocol for maxillofacial and aesthetic surgery, facilitating harmonized pre- and post-operative assessments and improving communication between healthcare providers and patients.

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This study is active but is not currently recruiting participants.

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Key information

Conditions

Facial Asymmetry Facial Morphology Pathological Conditions, Anatomical Pathological Conditions, Signs and Symptoms Reconstructive Surgical Procedures

Age range

18 year and older

Sex eligibility

All sexes

Study type

Observational

Primary location

Hôpital NOVO - Site Pontoise

Pontoise, France

About this study

Facial aesthetics are a central concern in both reconstructive and aesthetic surgery. Photography has become an essential tool for documenting, comparing, and evaluating facial outcomes before and after surgical procedures. However, variations in camera settings-particularly focal length-can significantly influence the perceived proportions of the face, potentially leading to misinterpretation or distortion in aesthetic assessment.

This project seeks to address this issue by developing a standardized photographic protocol for facial aesthetic evaluation. Specifically, it aims to identify the optimal photographic parameters, with a focus on focal length, that produce the most accurate and consistent two-dimensional (2D) representations of the face. It is well known that different focal lengths affect the visual perception of depth and facial proportions, making the subject appear more or less harmonious or attractive depending on the configuration.

To do this, a collection of facial images will be created using different focal length settings, while keeping other shooting conditions constant (subject-camera distance, lighting, background, and subject posture).

Who can participate

Healthy volunteers accepted: Yes

Only the study team can determine whether someone qualifies for participation.

Inclusion criteria

Age ≥ 18,
Signed informed consent

Exclusion criteria

Facial anomalies or Wounds

Treatment and study plan

Image and data collection

Other

Evaluation of the photographs by four independent raters

Primary outcomes

Identify the focal length setting for optimal assessment of facial aesthetics on 2D photographs

Time frame: Up to 3 months

Attractiveness score from 1 to 5 (from very unattractive to very attractive, respectively). The images will be evaluated by 4 independent raters (2 experts: facial surgeons, and 2 non-experts) based on the focal length used: 50 mm, 85 mm, 105 mm, 135 mm, and 200 mm.

Sponsors and collaborators

Lead sponsor

Hôpital NOVO

Other

Registry information

Acronym: OPTIFACE

Important dates

Study start: 2025
Primary completion: 2025
Study completion: 2025
First posted: Jul 4, 2025
Registry last updated: Jul 4, 2025

OpenTrials presents study information sourced from ClinicalTrials.gov. The official registry record should be consulted for the latest information.

View the official ClinicalTrials.gov record (opens in a new tab)

This listing is for discovery and informational purposes only. It is not medical advice, does not guarantee that a study is recruiting, and does not determine eligibility. Contact the study team and a qualified healthcare professional when considering participation.

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