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Measuring the esthetic outcome using a three-dimensional facial scanner after parotidectomy and application of
Philip-Oliver Brzoska1, Ralf-Dieter Hilgers2, Florian Peters1
1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, University Hospital of RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany.
Background:
Parotidectomy can affect facial symmetry. Our study evaluated the symmetry of different facial areas and upper neck after total parotidectomy and filling the area with vascularized fat flap (VFF).
Methods:
Facial symmetry was evaluated in eight patients and a control group matched in terms of gender and age, using a three-dimensional (3D) facial scanner. The operated side was compared with the non-operated side and the symmetry compared with that of the control group. Scanning was performed either within the first year (group 1; n = 5) or after 3 years (group 2; n = 3) postoperatively.
Results:
The patients' cheek and neck areas were found to be significantly more asymmetric, but the cheek area in group 2 was significantly more symmetrical when compared with group 1.
Conclusion:
VFF appeared to achieve similar facial symmetry to the matched non-operated group. Time had a positive impact on the facial symmetry. The neck area was the most asymmetric, and proved to be unreliable, regardless of whether any procedure was performed or not.
