Lefort Surgery: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Lefort Surgery?

Lefort surgery is a type of orthognathic surgery that corrects skeletal disharmony and malocclusion. The procedure involves surgically repositioning the maxilla (upper jaw) and/or the mandible (lower jaw) to correct facial deformities. Lefort surgery is often performed in conjunction with other orthodontic procedures to achieve optimal results.

Types of Lefort Surgery

There are three main types of Lefort surgery:

• Lefort I Osteotomy: Corrects vertical maxillary deficiency by moving the maxilla downwards.
• Lefort II Osteotomy: Corrects anteroposterior maxillary deficiency by moving the maxilla forwards or backwards.
• Lefort III Osteotomy: Corrects transverse maxillary deficiency by narrowing or widening the maxilla.

Indications for Lefort Surgery

Lefort surgery is typically recommended for patients with the following conditions:

• Skeletal disharmony between the upper and lower jaws
• Malocclusion (improper bite)
• Facial deformities, such as a recessed or protruding jaw
• Difficulty breathing or sleeping due to jaw misalignment

Procedure

Lefort surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia. The procedure involves making incisions inside the mouth and along the gums to access the underlying bone. The maxilla is then carefully separated from the skull and repositioned to correct the malocclusion. Plates and screws are used to secure the maxilla in its new position.

Recovery

After Lefort surgery, patients typically remain in the hospital for several days. During this time, they will be closely monitored and given pain medication as needed. The recovery period typically lasts for several months and involves the following:

• Eating a soft diet
• Avoiding strenuous activity
• Wearing ice packs to reduce swelling
• Taking antibiotics to prevent infection

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, Lefort surgery carries certain risks and complications, including:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Difficulty breathing
• Asymmetry

Conclusion

Lefort surgery is a complex procedure that can effectively correct skeletal disharmony and malocclusion. However, it is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the surgery with your doctor before making a decision.

Lefort Surgery