Quantitative 3-dimensional Geometry of the Aging Eyelids

Although facial aging is a well-known phenomenon, it has not been comprehensively characterized in 3 dimensions. This study introduces a novel technique for capturing periorbital structures across age groups using 3-dimensional (3D) imaging and point cloud data collection. METHODS: Forty-six white women were divided into 3 age groups: 20–39 years, 40–59 years, and 60+ years. Patients were scanned with the Canfield 3D photogrammetry system, and data files were exported to the point cloud processing software CloudCompare. Manually selected points specifying eyelid margins, creases, and 5 key periorbital features provided the basis for a fitted model and principal component analysis (PCA). Potential statistical significance across age groups was assessed for PCA values corresponding to each subject's eyelid geometry. RESULTS: Three tendencies emerged with respect to increasing age and eyelid anatomy: the width and height of the palpebral fissure decreases, with the width decreasing more rapidly; the depth of the lateral canthus relative to the medial canthus decreases; and the superior crease becomes more variable. Analyses of variance of PCA values across age groups show statistically significant differences between the youngest and oldest groups. CONCLUSIONS: Three-dimensional photogrammetry enables rigorous and reliable evaluation of the aging eyelid. Results suggest age-induced changes to eyelid margin, crease, and lateral canthus positions, which have been noted anecdotally but poorly quantified until now.