A method and apparatus are disclosed for a method for securing a patient for a medical procedure and specifically for an innovative headrest system for securing a patient for an ocular imaging procedure. The approach avoids the need for linkages and sliding rods and such. Instead, it relies on three independently movable face rests (two for the forehead or temples and one for the chin) each with a deformable cushion that is urged into conformity with the patient's head and chin during an adjustment phase of operation. Once a comfortable position and suitable conforming shape is achieved, the positions of the face rests are rigidly fixed and the shape of the cushions are rendered rigid and non-deformable, by application of a light vacuum, for the procedural or imaging phase of operation.