Lefort Surgery

Lefort Surgery: A Guide to Surgical Technique and Complications

Introduction

Lefort surgery is a type of orthognathic surgery used to correct deformities in the midface and lower face. It was developed by famed surgeon Leon Germain in 1904 to correct a cleft lip and palate. Today, it is more commonly used to treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• Midface hypoplasia, or underdevelopment of the middle third of the face, which can cause breathing and feeding problems.
• Maxillary deficiency, or underdeveloped upper jaw, which can lead to an overbite, gummy smile, and difficulty chewing.
• Mandibular deficiency, or underdeveloped lower jaw which can result in an underbite, receding chin, and difficulty breathing.

Surgical Technique

Lefort surgery is a complex procedure that typically takes several hours to complete. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the patient is usually discharged from the hospital within 1-2 days.

The surgery begins with the surgeon making an incision along the gum line and separating the upper jaw from the rest of the face. The jaw is then moved into the desired position and secured with plates and screws. In some cases, the surgeon may also need to perform additional procedures, such as a bone graft or sinus lift.

Complications

Lefort surgery is a major procedure, and there are a number of potential complications that can occur. These complications can include:

• Bleeding
• Infection
• Nerve damage
• Altered sensation in the face
• Difficulty breathing
• Difficulty eating
• Speech problems
• Facial swelling
• Bruising
• Numbness in the lips, nose, or cheeks

Recovery

The recovery from Lefort surgery typically takes several weeks. During this time, the patient will need to follow the surgeon's instructions regarding diet, activity, and pain management.

Most patients experience some degree of pain and swelling after surgery. This can be managed with pain medication and ice packs.

The patient will also need to eat a soft diet for the first few weeks after surgery. This will help to prevent the jaw from moving out of place.

Conclusion

Lefort surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can improve the function and appearance of the face. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications before undergoing surgery.