Assessment of facial features with a range camera.

We describe a new method for the quantitative analysis of facial features using a range camera with a three-dimensional measuring program. The range camera consists of a video camera, a light projector, and a computer. The video camera captures a number of images of different light patterns projected on to the face. From these, a "range image" is computed. One fully illuminated intensity image of the face is also taken. By defining anatomical landmarks manually on the intensity image, three-dimensional measurements are automatically obtained from corresponding positions in the range image. The method is highly accurate and precise, and is a simple and reliable way of assessing facial features. We recommend that the system be adapted in clinical practice--for example, in diagnosing syndromes and planning plastic and reconstructive surgery.