Anatomic Description of the Infraorbital Soft Tissues by Three-dimensional Scanning System

Abstract

Purpose: For minimally invasive procedures, three-dimensional (3D) anatomical knowledge of the structures of the face is essential. This study aimed to describe the thickness of the skin and subcutaneous tissue and depths of the facial muscles located in the infraorbital region using a 3D scanner to provide critical clinical anatomical guidelines for improving minimally invasive cosmetic procedures. Materials and Methods: The 3D scanning images of 38 Korean cadavers (22 males and 16 females; age range: 51~94 years at the time of death) were analyzed. Eight facial landmarks (P1~P8) were marked on the cadaveric faces. The images were scanned in three steps-undissected face, hemiface after skinning, and revealing the facial muscles. Student's t-test was used to identify significant differences. Result: The skin and subcutaneous tissue tended to become thicker from the upper to lower and medial to lateral aspects, and the muscles followed the same pattern as that of the most superficial located muscle and the deepest located muscles. No significant sex-related differences were found in the skin at any landmark. However, the muscles tended to be deeper in the female participants. Conclusion: The study data can serve as a basis for creating or enhancing clinical anatomy-based guidelines or improving procedures in the infraorbital region.