They repeat the same mathematical relationships and patterns, over and over. These patterns exist everywhere in nature: in the arrangement of plants and their leaves, in the spirals of shells, in the spirals of our own DNA. They also exist in basic geometric shapes and music. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans recognized these patterns in the balance and proportions of their art, architecture, and philosophy.
It has long been known that a harmonious profile or physique results from certain numerical relationships. The most appealing proportion to the human mind and eye is the "Golden Ratio" (1.618:1) or "Golden Section," which represents the proportions between various features of the human face, body, hands, legs, and torso.
In its most beautiful human forms, as in other natural creations, harmony lies in proportion and beauty. Observe these proportions in Leonardo da Vinci's drawing of the Vitruvian Man. The most beautiful faces are considered to have ideal facial proportions directly related to the golden ratio.
Clearly, different cultures and ethnic groups possess varying aesthetics, but these differences lie in detail rather than fundamental proportional principles.
You might wonder how all this talk about the golden ratio relates to cosmetic surgery? When a surgeon discusses improving or restoring "harmony," they are referring, at least in part, to the golden ratio—or its absence—as an instinctive response seemingly innate to humans.
According to Sydney plastic surgeon Stephen, the golden ratio's proportional curves have popularized beauty standards.True beauty never becomes square. There's always a subtle curve. Youthful faces are invariably graceful. Dr. Stephen observes that faces possess an "inverse arc curve"—an "S" shape where one curve is twice the length of the other, creating three-dimensional beauty. Reintroducing this inverse arc curve to faces makes aging individuals look younger and more beautiful.
The optimal approach to enhancing beauty follows this sequence: first improve skin texture, then correct overall facial or body contours, and finally focus on individual features.
Beyond proper nutrition, hydration, and sunscreen use, numerous techniques and products exist to enhance skin texture, tone, and overall appearance.
Facial shape can be refined not only by altering specific features but also by adjusting relative proportions to create a more aesthetically pleasing overall composition. An overly long or narrow face can be softened into a more oval shape—a universally flattering contour. A wide face may be narrowed by relaxing the muscles in that area with Botox injections.
The doctor encourages both physicians and patients to view the entire face holistically rather than fixating on a single area.
Modifying certain facial features may suit some individuals but not everyone. Racial and personal characteristics must be carefully considered when altering facial structure. This is why plastic surgeons don't recommend everyone strive for lips like Angelina Jolie's.