Three-dimensional mixed longitudinal study of facial growth changes and variability of facial form in preschool children using stereophotogrammetry.

The longitudinal growth of the face between third and sixth year of age was similar in both sexes, facial sex differences were found in terms of intensity, size and timing. Variability of facial form showed that boys' faces were larger on average and facial shape did not differ. The knowledge of facial growth is essential for diagnostics and clinical practice.