Interobserver reliability in the 3D facial scan assessment of the outcome in dermal filler therapy

Abstract Study design We conducted a prospective cohort study comparing interobserver reliability of 2 different 3D scanning measurement methods following dermal filler therapy in oral cleft patients. Objective of the study The objective of the study was to compare the interobserver reliability of 2 different assessment methods of 3D facial scan data. Methods We studied 10 oral-cleft patients prospectively who underwent dermal filler therapy in the oral region by a single oral-surgeon using a modified injecting technique with 27 gauge 25 mm micro-cannula between 2021 and 2023. 3D facial scans were made before the treatment procedure and during follow-up visits and were used for analysis. The interbody fusion was scored on these 3D images using the 2 classification systems (Method 1, Method 2) by 3 experienced orthodontic specialists all of whom were blinded to clinical data and outcome. Results Of the 2 classifications included in the current study, all classifications had a high interobserver agreement. Conclusion The 2 assessment methods used in this study showed high interobserver reliability so we can conclude that, the applied methods may provide as a validation in the outcome of dermal filler therapy. However, we suggest that further refinements may be required to achieve a reliable and consistent assessment of 3D facial scan analysis after dermal filler therapy in oral cleft patients.