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2. I used to always liquify the facial structure to be more appealing when I started doing in depth retouching, just like you did here. I'd push in the jawline, flip the image horizontally a few times to make sure all the features were symmetrical, slightly increase eye size and reduce nose size...ect. Since then I've learned it really isn't necessary and can be done with highlight and shadow shaping. The benefit to doing it that way is you retain the unique characteristics of the model, while still achieving that super perfect look. This model is interesting because of her wide, square chin. It looks good on her because all her features are wide, so it's balanced. Sure you can slim the chin down to make her look more stereotypically attractive, but it almost makes the image more boring. The same goes for removing character-giving features like the under-eye bulge (good job not removing it btw!) and moles.
I suggest only sculpting the outer bone structure for older people with jowls, and body shots, or if the image calls for a hyper-perfect mannequin look. If you look at the overall intent of this image, it's a natural beauty shot. Doesn't need outer facial reconstruction. Save that for images like the one I've attached, where the end goal is obviously alien level perfection. Whenever you can preserve character - do it.
I've also found that a lot of the time you can get away with heavy interior shadow shaping, but as soon as the exterior starts getting shaped the client will tell you it looks like someone else.
3. Careful of bringing out unwanted detail that detracts from the final image. If you look at the original, the area under her ear is flat. In yours there are all these stray hairs and purple/blue shadows. Sometimes it's good to keep areas underexposed if they aren't attractive in the final image.
Overall super-impressive. Keep up the awesome work.
