Surface scanning and imaging in craniofacial surgery.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: This review describes recent innovations in craniofacial imaging, focusing on emerging techniques such as 3D photogrammetry, smartphone-based scanning, and artificial intelligence applied to cephalometric assessments in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery.

RECENT FINDINGS: Traditional methods like occipitofrontal circumference and cephalic index remain widely used, but newer, more precise technologies have recently emerged. 3D photogrammetry is a reproducible, safe, and noninvasive alternative, offering detailed cranial modeling using external landmarks. The integration of smartphone technologies has further democratized craniofacial imaging by enabling accurate 3D scans with minimal cost and radiation exposure. Despite variability in certain facial regions, these technologies have shown promising accuracy for clinical use. Furthermore, AI-driven approaches enhance diagnostic precision by generating synthetic data and improving landmark detection in complex cranial morphologies.

SUMMARY: Recent technological advances are reshaping craniofacial imaging and optimizing preoperative and postoperative care in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. 3D imaging and AI applications offer significant improvements over traditional methods and allow for more precise and reliable methods for operative planning and longitudinal assessments. As these tools develop, they are bound to become the new standards for clinical evaluation of craniofacial anomalies.