Evaluation of facial symmetry after jaw reconstruction surgery

Abstract

The current study proposes a 3D objective method of evaluating facial symmetry after reconstructive surgery of orofacial structures. 3D models of the craniofacial and soft tissue surfaces were reflected about the mid-sagittal plane. The original model was aligned with the reflection and the best plane of symmetry was found. A deviation contour map quantified the areas of asymmetry and gave a global score of the asymmetry. The asymmetry scores were successfully obtained for 18 patients who had underwent reconstruction of lower face. The asymmetry values at craniofacial and soft tissue levels were moderately correlated (=0.39). Overall, the developed method effectively highlights areas of asymmetry and can help evaluate aesthetic outcomes of facial reconstruction surgery.