Mandibular Oblique Ostectomy

Abstract

Mandibular angle ostectomy and mandibular angle-splitting ostectomy are the main surgical approaches for correction of a square and broad lower face. However, based on our clinical experience, these approaches have some limitations. We improved the ostectomy as an intraoral-approach oblique ostectomy to reduce the width of the lower face, such that the mandibular contour satisfied both surgeons and patients. Between 2007 and 2008, 11 patients who underwent bilateral mandible oblique ostectomy for a square and broad lower face at the craniofacial center in Renji Hospital were involved in the study. At the prominent angle of the mandible, the outer cortex was resected through an intraoral approach. Final results showed that the lower-face width appeared to be decreased, and a natural mandible contour was achieved. All the patients were followed up for at least 6 months. All the patients were very pleased with their postoperative frontal and lateral view. Transient marginal mandibular branch palsy occurred in 1 patient, who ultimately recovered later. There were no other complications. Intraoral-approach oblique ostectomy can make the face look thinner from the frontal view and, in the lateral view, keep the natural contour of the mandibular angle. This technique is also easy to put into practice, saves time, and has fewer complications. We consider the oblique ostecomy technique as a safe and effective treatment for mandibular contouring.