Facial esthetics--presentation of an ideal face.

There appears to be a general consensus that a universal standard for facial esthetics is impossible due to so many variables that must be considered such as race, age, sex, cultural biases, etc. It is my conviction that a universal standard is not only possible, but highly desirable. In order for this to occur, it must be fully understood that facial esthetics is directly related to ideal facial proportions. Treating toward ideal facial proportions is desirable because it in turn appears to be directly related to ideal physiologic harmony. By clearly illustrating those faces considered to be ideal, it is hoped that this article will offer practitioners a greater understanding of this most important subject matter. Visual, cephalometric and physiologic criteria were used to assess facial esthetics.