Impact of Surgical Rejuvenation on Visual Processing and Character Attribution of Faces

BACKGROUND: This study considers observers’ reflexive responses to the rejuvenated face, and how instinctive responses relate to subjective judgment. We investigated observers’ reflexive perception of faces both pre and post surgical intervention during the early stages of visual processing. Subjective character attribution for all test images was also assessed by the same observers. METHOD: Forty frontal facial images of 20 patients portraying the pre- and postoperative high superficial musculoaponeurotic system facelift along with variable concomitant procedures were studied. Nineteen lookzone regions were mapped post hoc onto each image. Forty observers examined the images, whereas an eye-tracking camera recorded their eye movements. Visual fixation data were recorded and analyzed. Observers also rated each image on the basis of five elemental positive character attributes. RESULTS: A statistically coherent but nonsignificant (P > 0.05) trend was identified with the surgical intervention resulting in greater attention being paid to the central triangle region of the face with reduction in attention to the facial periphery. Facial rejuvenation significantly increased the subjective character ratings of all five positively valenced attributes tested. Average age estimate of the photos decreased significantly from 54 to 48.6 years (true average age of 57.4 years). CONCLUSIONS: We provide data illustrating both reflexive and subjective responses to facial rejuvenation. Observers reported a more favorable impression of the treated faces and evaluated them as being younger than their true age. A trend was detected for increased visual fixation of the central facial region following rejuvenation. Interpretation of these findings and indication for further research is provided.