“Geography of the Nose an Anthropometry Study”

Abstract

Background: The nasal index determination is one of the most commonly used anthropometric parameters in classifying human races. Aim: The objective of this study was to determine the normal parameters of the external nose (Nasal height, width and nasal index) in the south Indian population. Subjects and Methods: The study was conducted randomly on healthy subjects of both sexes. Nasal height and width were measured using a vernier caliper. Then, the nasal index was determined for each subject. The obtained data were subjected to statistical analysis (SPSS Version 21). Results: A total of 143 subjects, 73 males and 70 females, aged 18-23 years, were enrolled in the study. The study showed the existence of sexual dimorphism in nasal morphology, appearing after the age of 20 years. The mean nasal index in the investigated adults was 42.1 ± 8.4 in males, and females were 31.7 ± 3.8, respectively. The dominant nasal type was Leptorrhine in male 46.5% (n=34) and female was Mesorrhine 41.4 % (n=29) respectively. Conclusion: This study can help in understanding the need for those who want a more "shapely" nose. Forensic medicine, Genetic counseling, Anthropological research, Cosmetic, reconstructive surgery, Orthodontics, and specific manufacturing industries, benefit from age-and gender-based data of the study.