Analysis of morphological changes after facial massage by a novel approach using three‐dimensional computed tomography

Abstract

Background/purpose: Photograph-based visual scoring has been used for evaluation of facial morphological changes. Here, we describe a three-dimensional computed tomography (3D-CT) method for objective analysis of facial and intra-facial (subcutaneous) changes. The effects of facial massage were examined using both methods. Methods: Subjects were 12 healthy female volunteers without facial scars or deformation (age 30-54 years, mean 39.4 years). Photograph-based scoring of massage-induced morphological changes was done at the nasolabial folds, upper, lower and lateral cheeks and lower eyelids. For 3D-CT evaluation, the virtual center axis (VCA) was set as the craniocaudal longitudinal line, and the VCA-skin surface distances (VSDs) were measured. Massage-induced changes of VSD were calculated (facial massage-induced change rate, FMCR). Intra-facial (subcutaneous) changes were also evaluated. Results: Photograph-based scoring revealed marked morphological changes of the nasolabial folds after facial massage, and changes of the lower, upper and lateral cheeks and lower eyelid were also observed in more than half of the subjects. FMCR values were significantly changed in the paranasal area, nasolabial fold area and cranial part of the mandibular area. Photograph-based scores at the lower cheek and lower

Basic analysis of facial ageing: The relationship between the superficial musculoaponeurotic system and age

“…In addition, we determined that SMAS laxity was greater in older subjects and that changes in their facial appearance were easily induced by a PC (Figure ). Our previous studies, in which the SMAS laxity was quantified using MDCT, revealed the usefulness of the imaging modality . Nonetheless, our current results provide objective evidence of the relationship between age and SMAS laxity, which is a significant cause of cheek sagging.…”

“…To this end, the MDCT imaging modality was used to accurately measure the morphological changes in the SMAS that were associated with a posture change. Current CT imaging technology can provide high‐resolution images, allowing detailed visualization of the facial appearance and the subcutaneous anatomic structures . Moreover, the workstation, which serves as the image analysis device, can create various 3‐D CT images as well as reconstructed images.…”

“…Current CT imaging technology can provide high-resolution images, allowing detailed visualization of the facial appearance and the subcutaneous anatomic structures. [13,14] Moreover, the workstation, which serves as the image analysis device, can create various 3-D CT images as well as reconstructed images. Maxillary…”

“…Our previous studies, in which the SMAS laxity was quantified using MDCT, revealed the usefulness of the imaging modality. [13][14][15] Nonetheless, our current results provide objective evidence of the relationship between age and SMAS laxity, which is a significant cause of cheek sagging. As a reason for the correlation between the SMAS laxity and age, we concluded that the SMAS lost its supporting force with age and the SMAS configuration changed easily by PCs.…”

Useful parameters for the motion analysis of facial skin care in Japanese women

“…FSC of Japanese woman has also been reported to influence autonomic nerve system (ANS) activity [ 3 – 7 ]. Alternatively, facial massage by hand is thought to provide physical stimulation to both skin and muscle, leading to morphological and physical improvement [ 8 , 9 ].…”