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Published on: January 28, 2020
Motivating factors for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery evaluation
Michael Proothi1, Stephanie J Drew, Stephen A Sachs
1Long Island Jewish Medical Center, New Hyde Park, NY, USA. drproothi@yahoo.com
Summary
Patients seek orthognathic surgery primarily for bite and functional improvements, not appearance. This study surveyed 501 patients, finding functional correction to be the main driver for seeking maxillomandibular surgery.
Area of Science:
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Orthodontics
- Dentofacial Deformities
Background:
- Orthognathic surgery corrects jaw abnormalities.
- Patient motivations for seeking this surgery vary.
- Previous studies often cite appearance as the primary driver.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the primary motivating factors for patients seeking orthognathic surgery.
- To analyze the reasons behind consultations for maxillomandibular procedures.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 637 cases from 1990-2006.
- Data extracted from 501 completed patient surveys.
- Exclusion of patients under 12 and those with identified syndromes.
Main Results:
- The primary motivation for orthognathic surgery was bite/function correction (36%), not appearance (15%).
- While 76% reported appearance was affected, it was not the main reason for seeking treatment.
- 501 patients (43% male, 57% female, age 12-45) were analyzed.
Conclusions:
- Correction of bite or functional disability is the most common reason for seeking orthognathic surgery.
- Findings contrast with prior studies that emphasized appearance as the main motivator.
- This study highlights the importance of functional outcomes in patient decision-making for maxillofacial surgery.
