Method for the analysis of the 3-D shape of the face and changes in the shape brought about by facial surgery

A method based on differential geometry is presented for quantitatively measuring facial (or body) surfaces and the amount of change produced in them by facial surgery. Facial shape is described mathematically in terms of 8 fundamental surface types. Changes produced in the shape of the face are described in terms of changes in these constituent surfaces. The method is illustrated using examples of faces changed by reconstructive surgery and its relationship to clinical observation explained.