Three-dimensional laser scanner evaluatiion of facial soft tissue changes after Le Fort I advancement and rhinoplasty surgery: patients with cleft lip and palate vs patients with nonclefted maxillary retrognathic dysplasia (control group)

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze the differences in facial soft tissue changes, despite the same extent of upper jaw forward movement, between patients with unilateral cleft lip and palate (uCLP) and those without, after LeFort I osteotomy and secondary rhinoplasty. STUDY DESIGN: Twelve patients with maxillary retrognathic dysplasia and nose deformity were divided in 2 groups, A (uCLP) and B (control), and compared on the basis of the same maxillary advancement. Cephalometry and 3D mean facial model of groups A and B were obtained before and after surgery. Linear and angular measurements were calculated. RESULTS: Upper vermilion and alar base remained unchanged in group A but increased in group B. In both groups, symmetry of the nasal base was improved, and an increase of the sagittal projection of the lips was observed. CONCLUSIONS: 3D analysis showed that surgical procedures for uCLP can provide a satisfactory aesthetic outcome, but some differences are evident in comparison with the control group.