A modified reduction malarplasty utilizing 2 oblique osteotomies for prominent zygomatic body and arch

The shape of the zygomatic body and arch have great influences to the facial contour of Orientals. The prominent zygoma makes the appearance look more fierce. Nowadays in China, the number of patients who underwent reduction malarplasty is increasing rapidly. Therefore, it is important to develop a reliable surgical procedure with small wound and good effects. Included in this report were 46 patients with prominent zygomatic body and arch treated between October 2007 and November 2010. Combined intraoral and extraoral approaches were used, and 2 oblique osteotomies were performed to anterior and posterior part of malar complex, respectively. The isolated zygoma segment was then internalized utilizing z-plasty for the posterior end and inward sliding and internal fixation for the anterior end. The extraoral approach was made through a small temple incision. All patients were subjectively satisfied with the postoperative appearance. Their face contours were effectively improved by the modified procedure. One patient had short-term numbness of the medial zygomatic region skin; no other complications were observed during the follow-up period. This surgical procedure was carried out using combined intraoral and extraoral approaches. No visible scars left on the face. After 2 oblique osteotomies were made, the anterior inward sliding and posterior z-plasty could be easily performed to the isolated zygomatic bone. No segmental bone removal was required. The natural curve of the face contour was maintained while the malar complex was reshaped. We concluded that it is an effective and safe reduction malarplasty technique for Orientals.