But as Californian plastic surgeon Dr Monica Kieu notes in her TikTok, beauty is subjective (louder for the people in the back!). So then, why is the golden ratio still referenced so much in modern aesthetics?
According to cosmetic physician Dr Mary Fonti, the golden ratio is useful for assessing a patient’s face when starting out in the field. “I initially relied on using specialised calipers to measure facial proportions based on the golden ratio,” she explains. “It helped me develop an eye for identifying areas that could benefit from dermal fillers to address volume deficiencies. The great thing about these measurements is that they offer an objective way to show patients where too much filler could end up detracting from their natural beauty rather than enhancing it.”
But the reality of being a cosmetic doctor is that people are seeking your skills in pursuit of perfection of some kind. Dr Fonti’s most popular procedures include bioremodelling injections, dermal fillers, thread lifts and anti-wrinkle injections (we’re partial to a lip flip ourselves) – all to treat various concerns such as lines and wrinkles, volume loss and skin rejuvenation.
With more than a decade of experience under her belt, Dr Fonti has ditched the calipers for a more in-depth assessment of each patient’s face – and mental wellbeing. “In a world where social media can amplify self-consciousness and body dysmorphia, it's crucial to take a step back and delve into the reasons behind these insecurities,” she explains.
“Rather than chasing an elusive idea of perfection, I encourage patients to explore their self-acceptance journey and consider consulting with a psychologist if needed… Nowadays, I'm more focused on factors like skin quality, texture, and enhancing or restoring volume,” she says.
Keep in mind that the ratio and symmetry of your face changes and shifts over time as you age. For example, a loss of skin elasticity (causing lines and sagging) will change the shape of your cheeks. And that nose that was once Barbie-perfect never stops growing which also throws the proportions of your face off.
It’s also worth noting that the golden ratio of beauty is very much based upon the Eurocentric beauty ideal. This really comes as no surprise, given the very problematic lack of diversity in beauty standards. But let’s not forget that beauty standards do shift over time. We’re seeing it right now, with celebrities including the Kardashians, who were once the beauty standard, dissolving their fillers and embracing more of their natural features.
It is for this reason that Dr Fonti insists on a more personalised approach to aesthetics: “Instead of trying to fit everyone's face into a predetermined notion of beauty, my goal is to celebrate each person's unique beauty and enhance it in a way that feels true to them.”
The bottom line? The golden ratio may just be outdated when it comes to modern aesthetics. “I find inspiration in influential celebrities who prioritise a holistic approach to beauty,” Dr Fonti explains, opting to eschew rigid standards in favour of a healthy lifestyle, good skin care practices and the preservation of natural features.
“This emphasis on authenticity and self-expression is far more appealing than trying to fit into a specific mould,” she says. “While the golden ratio still serves a purpose in clinical settings to ensure balanced results, it's not the main focus during cosmetic consultations. As beauty standards continue to evolve, I believe the relevance of the golden ratio will continue to diminish, making room for a more inclusive and individualised approach to aesthetics.”
Main image credit: Getty
Want more expert-approved beauty advice? Check out our latest digital issue...
