Background: The study aimed to assess and compare the presence of golden proportions among three ethnic groups of Indian females: North Indian, North East Indian, and South Indian. Understanding ethnic variations in facial measurements and assessments related to golden proportions has implications for aesthetic treatments and facial reconstruction procedures.

Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted, involving 150  Indian females aged 18-35 years from the three ethnic groups. Facial measurements, including intercanthal distance, interalar width, and philtrum height, were collected using photographs captured using high-resolution Canon EOS 1500D camera with 18-55mm & 55-250 mm macro lens. Evaluators independently assessed facial photographs based on the golden proportion principle of Ricketts’. Statistical analyses, including Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and post-hoc tests were performed to compare the measurements and assessments among the ethnic groups.

Results: Statistically significant differences in facial measurements and assessments were observed among the North Indian, North East Indian, and South Indian ethnic groups. The  TR - ME:LC-ME (Total Facial Height: Length of face between Lateral Canthus of Eyes to Menton) was exactly in relation to the golden proportions in all three groups. The total facial height was thus in golden proportion to the middle and lower facial sections in all three groups. LNr:CHr and TSr:LCr were similar to the golden proportion in North Indian and North East Indian ethnicity, while  LNr:CHr was similar to the golden proportion in South Indian ethnicity. Variations in intercanthal distance, interalar width, and philtrum height indicated distinct facial proportions within each ethnic group. The evaluators' assessments of facial proportions also varied significantly among the ethnic groups, highlighting the influence of cultural and societal beauty standards on aesthetic perceptions.

Conclusion: The study findings underscore the importance of considering ethnic variations in golden proportions when planning aesthetic treatments and facial reconstruction procedures for Indian females. Recognizing and appreciating the diversity in facial aesthetics can lead to more personalized and culturally sensitive care, resulting in enhanced patient satisfaction and outcomes. Further research is needed to explore golden proportions in other ethnic groups and their impact on treatment preferences and outcomes.

Key words: golden proportions, facial width, facial height, facial proportions