Computer imaging for instruction in facial plastic surgery in a residency program.

Aesthetic analysis of the face has advanced from a purely subjective opinion to complicated formulas based on measuring various combinations of angles, distances, and ratios. These concepts of facial harmony and surgical alterations have been difficult to teach in a residency program, especially regarding preoperative evaluation and a clear idea of the desired surgical results. The authors have utilized a computer imaging system to facilitate the preoperative facial analysis and to project what the postoperative surgical result should achieve based on these measurements. The use of this system has helped enhance the communication between resident and attending surgeon as well as educate the resident in important facial relationships. A degree of experimental freedom in alteration of facial features is provided. The methods of facial analysis and the advantages of computer imaging in a residency program are discussed.