Have you ever looked at a stranger and immediately thought, “That’s a nice person” or “He looks approachable.” That is not just your intuition speaking. Rather, your brain may be forming perceptions based on that individual’s facial features. How might others perceive you based on your facial features, and how can cosmetic treatments help you to convey a powerful first impression? This blog post shares some interesting information.

What Do Your Features Say?

Here are a few examples of the messages conveyed by certain facial features:

• A strong and defined jawline is associated with masculinity, strength, and dominance.
• A mouth that is naturally tilted upward conveys the idea that a person is happy and approachable.
• A wide and/or round face might convey the idea that a person is youthful or perhaps even baby-like.
• Deep frown lines or certain types of facial sagging might suggest that a person is angry or unapproachable.
• Attractive features tend to send the message that a person is trustworthy. (What is “attractive” is highly subjective, of course.)

Why Do Humans Form Judgements Based on Facial Features?

Many studies have been conducted on facial features and the impressions they convey, and not all of them have revealed consistent results. However, the prevalence of such studies underscores the fact that people do form surface judgements based on facial features.

The reason behind this may be due to something known as emotion overgeneralization. This concept stems from the idea that humans are always searching for emotional cues. If a person appears to be smiling slightly, even when their face is neutral, we might conclude that they are a happy person in general.

Put Your Best Face Forward

Are your facial features sending the right message? If you find that people often perceive you in a way that you dislike, the reason might boil down to your natural features. In some cases, even slight alterations to your appearance could make a difference. For example, BOTOX may help to smooth out unflattering frown lines. Fillers, a brow lift, a nose job, or even a full face lift may alter your features in a way that makes you appear more youthful and approachable.

A skilled cosmetic surgeon can analyze your features and suggest treatments that can help you reach your goals.

Your facial features can say a lot! Even slight alterations to your features could help you make the right first impression time and again.

Meet the Practice

Dr. Irvin M. Wiesman is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is proud to serve the Chicago area.  He offers a broad range of facial services, and he always tailors treatments to help each individual reach their unique goals. If you are looking to enhance your appearance, he would be pleased to consult with you. Get in touch with our team at 312-981-1290.