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Mandibular contouring: a surgical technique for the asymmetrical lower face
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Seoul National University, College of Medicine, Chongno-Gu, Korea. lyh2374@plaza.snu.ac.ku
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|February 2, 2000
Summary
Plastic surgeons can correct facial asymmetry by accurately resecting the mandibular angle and managing soft tissues. This technique, combining cephalometry and external appearance, yields satisfactory results for lower face asymmetry.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Facial Aesthetics
Background:
- Facial asymmetry, particularly of the lower face, presents significant challenges in plastic surgery.
- Mandibular angle resection is a common procedure, but achieving symmetry requires careful consideration of bone and soft tissue.
- Previous methods relied heavily on cephalometry, which may not fully account for external appearance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a refined surgical technique for correcting lower facial asymmetry using mandibular angle resection.
- To highlight the importance of accurate bone resection and soft tissue management in achieving symmetrical outcomes.
- To emphasize the integration of cephalometric analysis with external aesthetic evaluation for surgical planning.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 53 mandibular angle resections between 1991 and 1996, with 13 cases involving asymmetrical lower faces.
- Utilized a cloth pattern to enhance the accuracy of bone resection, ensuring desired amount and shape.
- Determined the amount of bone resection based on both cephalometry and external visual assessment.
- Managed surrounding soft tissues meticulously to complement bone contouring.
Main Results:
- Satisfactory aesthetic and symmetrical results were achieved in the majority of patients.
- The technique combining accurate bone resection and soft tissue management proved effective.
- Postoperative cephalometry did not always show perfect symmetry, but external appearance was harmonious.
- Three patients experienced residual asymmetry, while no permanent nerve damage or infections were reported.
Conclusions:
- Accurate mandibular angle resection, guided by both cephalometry and external appearance, is crucial for correcting facial asymmetry.
- Effective management of soft tissues post-operation is essential for optimal aesthetic outcomes.
- This surgical approach offers a reliable method for improving lower facial symmetry with a low complication rate.