Age-related perceptions of laypeople on Class II facial profile alterations

The treatment plan for young patients with skeletal abnormalities is often selected by their parents. However, the treatment outcome should correspond with the patient’s preference to reduce the treatment need in the future. This study aimed to investigate the influence of post-treatment facial profiles in a skeletal Class II female subject on esthetic perceptions by laypeople of different age groups. Seven digitally adjusted profile images of predetermined nasolabial angle (NLA) and facial contour angle (FCA) were obtained from a female with skeletal Class II. These profile images were evaluated by 180 laypeople and were stratified according to three age groups (12–15, 22–32, and 44–54 years) using a visual analog scale and ranking order. The slightly convex profile with normal NLA (11° FCA and 91° NLA) was the most preferred by all age groups. The convex profile with the largest NLA (17° FCA and 115° NLA) was the least preferred by age group 12–15 and 44–54 years and the convex profile with normal NLA (17° FCA and 91° NLA) was the least preferred by age group 22–32 years. Sex was found to be significantly related to the rating score with females rated higher scores. The most attractive profile for all three age groups was a mandibular advancement-simulating profile. The least attractive profile for age groups 12–15 and 44–54 years was a most camouflage-simulating profile, while the least attractive profile for age group 22–32 years was an untreated most pronounced Class II profile.