[Cosmetic and functional diagnosis in vertical dysmorphisms of the face]

If it is accepted that 68 p. 100 of patients consulting for maxillofacial malformations do so for cosmetic reasons then the facial deformity must be taken into account in a similar manner to the maxillodental dysmorphism. A morphological cosmetic diagnosis must therefore be combined with a skeletal functional diagnosis. Just as teleradiographic techniques (Tweed-Sassouni-Delaire) contribute to the differention of the various types of vertical dysmorphism, photographic analysis procedures (Fomon-Broadbent and Mathews-Baud) are necessary for the study of anterior vertical abnormalities. A global diagnosis (functional and cosmetic) requires evaluation of results of these different examination techniques evaluation of establish the choice of operation responding to the wishes of the patient while respecting the occlusal criteria ensuring durability of results.