Gender-dependent change of transverse and vertical parameters in craniofacial skeletal aging: A 3-dimensional computed tomography study

Introduction: Facial aging is a dynamic process that includes the aging of the anatomical structure of soft tissue and bone. In our study, we aimed to examine the transverse and vertical parameters of the craniofacial skeleton according to age groups and to determine whether there are changes in these parameters in both genders during the aging process. Materials and methods: In this study, a total of 27 parameters, 12 transverse and 15 vertical, were examined on 3 dimensional Computed Tomography images of the cranium. A total of 300 individuals, 150 women and 150 men, were included in our study. Individuals will have 30 men and 30 women in each group; It was divided into 5 sub-age groups as 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60 and over, and the measurements were compared in both genders. Results: The mean age of a total of 300 people, 150 women and 150 men, included in the study was found to be 44.76±15.36. When genders and age groups were compared in terms of 27 craniofacial parameters, it was found that there was a significant difference between age groups in 6 transverse and 2 vertical parameters (p<0.05). It was determined that this difference was in the same direction for both genders, that is, it did not change according to gender. Conclusion: In our study, it was concluded that as the age progressed, an enlargement of the transverse distance and a narrowing of the vertical distance were observed in the craniofacial region in general. Due to the direct interaction of the craniofacial region with the facial region and its aesthetic importance, it is important for surgical procedures associated with this region, and age and gender differences should be taken into account.