Interpersonal impressions of cleft and non-cleft adolescents: A panel assessment study of peers, laypersons, and clinicians using 3dMD images

Chih Kai Hsu, Le Yung Wang, Amber Paige McCranie, Pin Ru Chen, Ting Chen Lu, Pang-Yun Chou*, Lun Jou Lo

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal Article peer-review

Abstract

Background: Patients with cleft lip and palate anomalies suffer from associated negative psychosocial effects despite undergoing reconstructive surgeries. Discrimination from others may be a contributing factor. We aim to understand whether people react differently to cleft and non-cleft subjects in questions regarding aesthetic appraisal and interpersonal impressions, as well as whether diverging opinions exist between people of different backgrounds. Materials and methods: Using the 3dMD system, three-dimensional craniofacial images of cleft (n = 20) and non-cleft (n = 5) pediatric individuals were obtained and used to create a Likert scale-based questionnaire. Participants from three different backgrounds, including adolescent peers, adult laypersons, and plastic surgeons, were recruited to complete the assessment. The resulting data were transferred to a bar graph and analyzed with the item response theory–graded response model to estimate the latent traits and capability of each subject. Results: Non-cleft images obtained more positive responses than cleft images in questions of both aesthetic appraisal and interpersonal impressions. However, some of the cleft images were rated similarly, or even superior, to non-cleft images in questions regarding interpersonal impressions. Surgeons showed the greatest latent capability in differentiating between cleft and non-cleft images, followed by adult laypersons, and then adolescent peers. Conclusions: Despite cleft patients experiencing drastic improvements in appearance post-repair, all subject groups responded differently to questions concerning aesthetic and social impressions of pediatric cleft and non-cleft images. Plastic surgeons were more critical than others. These findings may offer further insight to clinicians, educators, and caregivers into the social challenges faced by cleft individuals.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)193-200
Number of pages8
JournalJournal of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Volume99
DOIs
StatePublished - 12 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 British Association of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons

Keywords

  • 3D images
  • Adolescents
  • Cleft
  • Non-cleft
  • Panel assessment
  • Psychosocial

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