Three-dimensional assessment of facial soft-tissue asymmetry before and after orthognathic surgery

We developed a new three-dimensional (3D) method of analysis of facial asymmetry and applied it to 44 patients: 20 Class III cases treated by bimaxillary osteotomy; 12 Class III cases treated by maxillary advancement alone, and 12 Class II cases treated by bimaxillary operations. 3D images were taken within a week before operation (T1), and one (T2), three (T3), and six (T4) months after operation. Landmarks were digitised on each 3D model and facial asymmetry scores were calculated. In the bimaxillary osteotomy group, facial symmetry improved after operation. In the maxillary advancement group, there was no notable improvement in facial symmetry after operation. In the bimaxillary group, facial symmetry deteriorated after operation, particularly at the tip of the nose and prominence of the chin. At six months follow-up, the changes in facial asymmetry in the three groups were not significant.