The golden proportion has long been considered the standard by which beauty has been measured in Western cultures. Found in classical Greek temples and the works of Leonardo DaVinci, the golden proportion establishes a natural, aesthetically pleasing balance.

Plastic surgeons, like artists, use the golden proportion as a guide when performing cosmetic procedures – especially those involving the face. “When we talk about beauty, there are various proportions of the face that we look at,” said Brian Kinney, a renowned Los Angeles plastic surgeon.

According to ideal proportions, the face is divided lengthwise in thirds and widthwise in fifths. There are also numerous other favored proportions, including the angle between the nose and the lip and the symmetry of both halves of the face.

However, those who don't possess ideal proportions are not necessarily unattractive. “The numbers aren't critical in the sense that if you don't have them, you're not pretty. You can still be attractive,” Kinney said.

He cites the appeal of individual characteristics such as striking eyes and a pleasing smile. Traits like these can often trump minor imperfections with regard to proportionality.

Moreover, not all cultures have standards of beauty based on this classical Western ideal. In fact, many cultures worldwide value physical characteristics that in a sense defy Western standards.

Personality also plays a significant role in beauty, particularly kindness and self-assurance. Other factors that play a part in looking good are diet, exercise, skin care and maintaining overall health. Plastic surgery, of course, helps as well.

Interested in cosmetic surgery? Please contact us to learn more or to schedule a consultation with a board certified cosmetic surgeon near you.