Aging and Sexual Differences of the Human Skull.

BACKGROUND: The aging process of the face comprises all layers: skin, subcutaneous fat, muscles, and skeleton, and the signs of aging depend mainly on which layer is mostly affected.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the aging facial skeleton, as well as establish the sexual differences, areas with a strong predisposition to resorption, and aesthetic repercussion for better treatment approach.

METHODS: Skulls from the Forensic Anthropology Department of the Institute of Forensic Medicine of Belo Horizonte, Brazil, were classified according to gender and age group (i.e., <20 years, 20-50 years, >50 years). Structural changes were classified according to gender and age group.

RESULTS: Of the 241 skulls included, 192 were male skulls and 49 female. Sexual dimorphism and age-related peculiarities are described herein.

CONCLUSIONS: The knowledge of the anatomy of the aging face, taking into consideration all the layers (skin, fat pads, muscles, and bones), as a whole, for the treatment of folds and shadows is vital for a better and more natural final aesthetic outcome.