Nasal anatomy and maxillary surgery. I. Esthetic and anatomic principles

The LeFort I osteotomy is commonly performed to correct maxillary dentofacial deformities. Secondary changes in the nasolabial region that have occurred following this procedure include widening of the alar bases of the nose, upturning of the nasal tip, flattening and thinning of the upper lip, and downturning of the commissures of the mouth. Surgical techniques can modify undesirable secondary changes. Applying these surgical techniques and achieving the desired results require an understanding of the underlying anatomy. This paper will present a thorough review of the nasolabial anatomy (both external and internal) as it pertains to the patient undergoing maxillary surgery.