Aesthetic regions of the face

The periorbital region is the area demonstrating the most pronounced age and ethnic variation. In African skulls, the orbits are wider and more rectangular, and demonstrate earlier onset of bone resorption. The scant subcutaneous fat and protruded superior orbital margin causes a hollow-eyed look due to significant retraction of the periorbital tissues. Although the bone structure in Asian patients is similar to Caucasians, the tendon structure differs and the upper eyelid forms an epicanthic fold. African patients have larger cheeks and pronounced zygomatic bones, both frontally and laterally, whilst a prominent central maxilla often prevents a flat-faced appearance. The posterior triangle is defined as the area bounded by the posterior border of the sternocleidomastoid, anterior border of the trapezius and, inferiorly, the lateral third of the clavicle. The visible anterior triangle is the predominant focus of aesthetic treatments. With aging, the neck develops increased soft tissue laxity, excess skin, fat accumulation and loss of the cervicomental angle.