Philtral Column and Nostril Shape Pattern in Nepalese Population: Comparative Study between Two Ethnic Groups of Nepal.

Background Knowledge of the normal appearance of lip-nose complexes in a particular ethnicity or race helps to plan and modify surgical techniques for their deformity. Objective To determine the shape of the philtral column and nostril in children of two ethnic groups (Aryans and Mongoloids) of the Nepalese population and compare them to see if any variation exists. Method The present prospective study was carried out between December 2021 to January 2023 among 200 children of age 5-12 years. The children meeting our inclusion criteria were divided equally into Aryan and mongoloid groups based on the caste system in Nepal. Facial photographs were obtained in frontal and basal views. They were analyzed to determine the shape of the philtral column and nostril shape based on Mori's classification system. Result Out of 200 children, 123 were males and 77 were females. The most common type of philtral and nostril shape in the Nepalese population was triangular and teardrop respectively. Triangular and concave type philtral shape was predominant in Aryans whereas triangular and parallel type was predominant in Mongoloids however the variation was not significant. Similarly, teardrop nostrils were most common in both ethnic groups. Conclusion The results provide a morphological pattern and variation in the philtral and nostril shape in the two major ethnic group of Nepalese population.