Patient perceptions of orthognathic surgery

Area of Science:

• Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
• Plastic Surgery
• Patient Psychology

Background:

• Orthognathic surgery addresses skeletal discrepancies affecting function and aesthetics.
• Understanding patient perspectives is crucial for improving surgical outcomes and satisfaction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate presurgical concerns, motivations, preoperative preparation, and postsurgical perceptions of orthognathic surgery patients.
• To identify factors influencing patient satisfaction and re-election of treatment.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 90 orthognathic surgery patients.
• Utilized a 23-item questionnaire and Rotter's Locus of Control Inventory.
• Statistical analyses included frequency distributions, chi-square, Spearman's r, and Fisher's exact probability tests.

Main Results:

• Aesthetic motivations correlated with less initial reticence and easier appearance adjustment compared to functional motivations.
• Younger patients and those with cosmetic goals showed less concern about surgical risks.
• Inadequate explanations led to emotional unpreparedness, and postoperative surprises contributed to dissatisfaction.
• Two-jaw procedures caused more pain than single-arch procedures, though pain perception decreased over time.
• Maxillary procedures resulted in fewer pain complaints but more initial breathing and sinus issues compared to mandibular procedures.

Conclusions:

• Patient motivations (aesthetic vs. functional) significantly impact presurgical attitudes and postsurgical adjustment.
• Effective presurgical communication and preparation are vital for emotional readiness and satisfaction.
• While surgical goals may be met, they do not always guarantee a patient's willingness to undergo the procedure again.