Anthropometric Analysis of the Lips of Ndokwa Females in Delta State, Nigeria

Aim: The aim of this study is to determine selected anthropometric measurements of the lips among Ndokwa females in Delta State, Nigeria. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 384 Ndokwa females aged 15–24 years from Ndokwa East, Ndokwa West and Ukwuani Local Government Areas of Delta State, Nigeria. Participants were selected using cluster sampling. Data were obtained using a structured questionnaire, while direct anthropometric measurements of the lips and lower third of the face were taken with a digital vernier caliper. The measurements obtained include upper lip height (Sn–Ls), lower lip/chin vertical measurement (Li–Me), intercommissural distance (Ch–Ch), total lip height, upper vermilion height (UVH), lower vermilion height (LVH), and lower facial height (Sn–Me). Data were analysed with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences and Excel. Descriptive statistics include mean, standard deviation and coefficient of variation. Results: The mean upper lip height (Sn–Ls) was 12.12 ± 1.57 mm, while the mean lower lip/chin vertical measurement (Li–Me) was 30.28 ± 4.95 mm. The mean intercommissural distance (Ch–Ch) was 42.41 ± 7.74 mm and the mean total lip height was 42.40 ± 5.35 mm. The mean upper and lower vermilion heights were 11.38 ± 1.49 mm and 12.39 ± 1.74 mm, respectively, while the mean lower facial height (Sn–Me) was 55.88 ± 7.66 mm. The intercommissural distance showed the highest coefficient of variation (18.25%), whereas upper lip height recorded the lowest coefficient of variation (12.99%). Differences were also observed in the measured dimensions across the age groups. Conclusion: This study provides baseline anthropometric data on lip dimensions and related measurements of the lower third of the face among Ndokwa females aged 15–24 years in Delta State, Nigeria. The outcome of this study will serve as guide for anatomical, clinical, aesthetic and forensic experts.