The influence of tissue redraping after Le Fort I type osteotomy

Elongation of the upper lip, in particular the philtrum, and nose widening are common postoperative changes after a Le Fort I osteotomy. These changes can be induced by the transection of soft tissue and loosening of the underlying musculature. A methodology for soft tissue redraping was developed to limit these undesirable nasolabial changes. This study evaluates the effectiveness of the technique and influence of maxillary translocation on the nasolabial form. Anthropometric measurements, lip, philtrum length, and nose width, were taken two weeks prior to, and one year after, surgery. The mean postoperative changes were minimised to less than 1mm except for lip length in the extrusion groups, which was less than 1.5mm. Statistical analysis showed a stable result for lip length after maxillary advancement and/or intrusion as limited lengthening mainly occurred at the vermilion. Conversely, lip lengthening after extrusion mainly occurred at the philtrum. The mean nose width was maintained after maxillary advancement, decreased after extrusion, and increased after intrusion. The type of maxillary translocation only influenced the nasolabial soft tissue in case of intrusion and extrusion, not after advancement.