Anthropometric Study of Facial and Nasal Indices in Young Adults of Gujarat

Background: In forensic sciences, anthropometric parameters of the face are valuable in the identification of unknown human remains. Facial Index (FI) and Nasal Index (NI) are important cephalometric markers for classifying face and nose types across populations and show regional and ethnic variability.

Aim: To determine the average values of Facial Index (FI) and Nasal Index (NI) among young Gujarati adults, compare gender-based differences, and classify facial and nasal morphology.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 200 medical students (100 males, 100 females) aged 18–26 years, native to Gujarat. Subjects with normal dental occlusion, competent lips, and no craniofacial abnormalities were included. Facial height, bizygomatic width, nasal height, and nasal breadth were measured with digital vernier caliper and measuring tape. FI and NI were calculated using standard formulae. Data were analyzed with SPSS v25. Student’s t-test compared genders, with significance at p<0.05.

Results: The mean FI was 88.4 ± 3.7 for males and 86.3 ± 3.8 for females (p=0.021). The commonest facial type was leptoprosopic in males (46%) and mesoprosopic in females (43%). The mean NI was 77.7 ± 5.4 in males and 71.3 ± 4.8 in females (p=0.014). The predominant nasal type was mesorrhine in males (54%) and leptorrhine in females (58%).

Conclusion: Gujarati males typically present with long faces and medium noses, while females exhibit round faces and narrow noses. This study provides baseline anthropometric standards for the Gujarati population, valuable in forensic anthropology and reconstructive surgery.