Our Summary
This study is about testing a method for determining the most attractive position of the upper jaw (maxilla) in relation to the face. The researchers used a reference line, called the Barcelona Line (BL), from an upper front tooth (upper incisor or UI) to a point on the face.
The study involved white (Caucasian) patients from Spain and Brazil, whose upper jaws were in different positions. The researchers took side-view (sagittal) images of the patients’ faces and grouped them according to the distance from the upper incisor to the Barcelona Line.
Both healthcare professionals (orthodontists and maxillofacial surgeons) and non-professionals were asked to rate the attractiveness of each profile in a digital survey. In total, 74 people rated 40 profiles. The most attractive profiles were those where the upper jaw was slightly forward (protrusive) - specifically, when the distance from the upper incisor to the Barcelona Line was between 0 and 4mm, or more than 4mm. The least attractive profiles were those where the upper jaw was slightly backward (retrusive) - specifically, when the distance from the upper incisor to the Barcelona Line was less than -4mm or between -4mm and 0mm.
The study found a moderately strong relationship between the average rating and the distance from the upper incisor to the Barcelona Line. The reliability of the ratings (how consistently different people rated the same profile) was moderate.
The study concludes that the Barcelona Line is a useful tool for planning surgery to reposition the upper jaw in a way that is likely to be seen as attractive.
FAQs
- What was the purpose of this study on maxillofacial surgery?
- How were the ratings for different maxillary positions determined in this study?
- What is the significance of the Barcelona line in orthognathic surgery according to the study?
Doctor’s Tip
A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about maxillofacial surgery is to trust the expertise of the surgeon and follow their post-operative care instructions closely. This includes taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and following any dietary restrictions or activity limitations. It is also important to communicate any concerns or questions with the surgeon throughout the recovery process.
Suitable For
Patients who may be recommended for maxillofacial surgery include those with facial skeletal deformities such as a protruded or retruded maxilla, a receding chin, an open bite, a crossbite, or other malocclusions that cannot be corrected with orthodontic treatment alone. Patients with sleep apnea, temporomandibular joint disorders, facial trauma, or congenital facial anomalies may also benefit from maxillofacial surgery. Additionally, patients seeking cosmetic improvements to their facial appearance, such as those with a weak chin or a gummy smile, may be candidates for maxillofacial surgery.
Timeline
Before maxillofacial surgery, a patient typically undergoes a consultation with a maxillofacial surgeon to discuss their concerns and goals for surgery. This may include a physical examination, imaging tests, and discussions about the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. The surgeon will create a treatment plan tailored to the patient’s specific needs.
After the surgery, the patient will experience some swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medication and proper post-operative care. The patient will need to follow specific instructions from the surgeon regarding diet, activity level, and wound care. Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor the healing process and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Overall, the timeline for a patient before and after maxillofacial surgery can vary depending on the specific procedure and individual factors. However, with proper preparation and follow-up care, patients can achieve improved facial aesthetics and function.
What to Ask Your Doctor
- What specific maxillofacial surgery procedure do you recommend for my condition?
- What are the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery?
- What is the expected recovery time after the surgery?
- Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
- How long will the results of the surgery last?
- Are there any alternative treatment options to consider?
- How many times have you performed this specific surgery?
- What is the success rate of this surgery in patients with similar conditions to mine?
- Will I need to undergo any additional procedures or treatments in conjunction with the maxillofacial surgery?
- What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery and what are the potential side effects?
Reference
Authors: Hernández-Alfaro F, Vivas-Castillo J, Belle de Oliveira R, Hass-Junior O, Giralt-Hernando M, Valls-Ontañón A. Journal: Br J Oral Maxillofac Surg. 2023 Jan;61(1):3-11. doi: 10.1016/j.bjoms.2022.10.002. Epub 2022 Oct 13. PMID: 36609073