  3D face reconstruction algorithms from images and videos are applied to many
fields, from plastic surgery to the entertainment sector, thanks to their
advantageous features. However, when looking at forensic applications, 3D face
reconstruction must observe strict requirements that still make unclear its
possible role in bringing evidence to a lawsuit. Shedding some light on this
matter is the goal of the present survey, where we start by clarifying the
relation between forensic applications and biometrics. To our knowledge, no
previous work adopted this relation to make the point on the state of the art.
Therefore, we analyzed the achievements of 3D face reconstruction algorithms
from surveillance videos and mugshot images and discussed the current obstacles
that separate 3D face reconstruction from an active role in forensic
applications.
