Background. The upper lip-nose complex contributes significantly to the concept of symmetry and proportion of the face. A\nstudy of the morphology and aesthetic preferences of the lip-nose complex will provide a database that will serve as a guide\nfor reconstruction. Subjects and Methods. Hundred Nigerian children participated in this study. Demographic data and standard\nphotographs of the philtral column and nostrils were obtained. Sixty volunteers were recruited to evaluate the photographs. Each\nvolunteer was asked to rank the photographs based on their aesthetic preference. Results. The morphology of the philtral columns\nwas classified into four groups: (1) triangular, (2) concave, (3) flat, and (4) parallel. The nostril shape was also classified into four\ngroups: (1) triangular, (2) round, (3) teardrop, and (4) rectangular. In both genders, the triangular shape of philtral column was the\nmost common. There are significant age differences in the aesthetic rankings of philtral columns and nostril shapes. Conclusion.\nOur study establishes the basal values for the morphometric and aesthetic parameters of the lip-nose complex of 5- and 6-year-old\nchildren in Nigeria.We hope our results and reconstructive surgery will intersect at a point to treat disfigurements of the philtrum\nand nostrils successfully.
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