FACIAL PROFILE ESTHETIC PREFERENCES AMONG SAUDI CITIZENS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Facial profile esthetics are crucial in orthodontic and maxillofacial treatment planning, yet perceptions of attractiveness vary across populations due to cultural and social factors. Limited data exist on profile preferences among Saudi citizens, necessitating population-specific research to guide patient-centered care. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study assessed facial profile esthetic preferences in 412 adult Saudi citizens (51.9% female, 48.1% male) aged ≥18 years. Using a self-administered questionnaire with standardized grayscale profile images, participants rated preferences for facial convexity (straight, mildly convex, convex, concave), lip position relative to the esthetic line (on, slightly behind, protrusive), and chin projection (normal, retruded, protruded). Demographic associations were analyzed using chi-square tests (p<0.05). Results: The straight profile was most preferred (42.7%), followed by mildly convex (38.3%). Lips positioned on the esthetic line were favored by 46.6%, and normal chin projection by 49.5%. Significant associations emerged: females preferred straight profiles more than males (45.8% vs. 39.4%; p=0.032); younger participants (18–25 years) favored straight profiles (44.9%), while older groups preferred more convex profiles (p=0.041); higher education correlated with preference for lips on the esthetic line (postgraduates 50.0% vs. 41.7% in secondary or less; p=0.028). Conclusion: Saudi citizens predominantly prefer balanced, harmonious facial profiles—straight to mildly convex, with lips on the esthetic line and normal chin projection. Demographic factors including gender, age, and education significantly influence esthetic perceptions. These findings underscore the need for culturally tailored, individualized treatment planning in orthodontics and oral and maxillofacial surgery to optimize patient satisfaction and outcomes.