Facial identification of the dead

Abstract

Abstract The skull and the face are directly related, and skeletal morphology influences the facial proportions, muscle structure, feature formation and hence detailed facial appearance. Each face is unique and we are each capable of perceiving very subtle differences between faces in order to carry out personal recognition. Following an anatomical method it is possible to reconstruct the face of an individual onto the skull for forensic human identification. This paper discusses the uses of facial reconstruction, the methodology employed, and the accuracy and reliability of facial reconstruction as a forensic investigative tool.