Reconstruction of the zygomatic area. A comparison between osteotomy and onlay techniques

The contour of the hypoplastic or displaced zygoma can be corrected by two basically different techniques. For reconstruction, onlays with alloplastic or autologous material are advocated. In post-traumatic cases an osteotomy may be considered. The two techniques are compared. It appears that the longterm results achieved in 7 cases with the onlay technique are aesthetically inferior to those of the 20 cases treated by osteotomy. Since the osteotomy also has technical advantages, it should also be preferred in cases of marked hypoplasia, if need be in combination with onlays.