Forensic facial reconstruction (or forensic facial approximation) is the process of recreating the face of an individual from their skeletal remains through an amalgamation of artistry, forensic science, anthropology, osteology, and anatomy. It is based upon the recognition of the fact that there exists a predictable relationship between the skull and the overlaying soft tissues. This form of identification technique is used when the facial features are severely damaged or decomposed beyond recognition.
Anthrolpological and anthropometric assessment of hard tissue establishes sex, age and ancestry, determining the tissue depth dataset required. In addition, anthrolpological and anthropometric assessment establishes facial characteristics.
Facial reconstruction presents investigators and family members involved in criminal cases concerning unidentified remains with a unique alternative, identification technique. Facial reconstructions often provide the stimuli that eventually lead to the positive identification of remains. In addition to remains involved in criminal investigations, facial reconstructions are created for remains believed to be of historical value and for remains of prehistoric hominids and humans.
When skeletal remains are found, and the victim remains unidentified after traditional means of identification fail, investigators may call upon the forensic artist to utilize a two-dimensional or three-dimensional facial reconstruction technique.
