Surgical correction of the long face syndrome

The combined efforts of different specialists are needed for the successful treatment of patients with the long face syndrome. Both surgeons and orthodontists who recognize their own capabilities and limitations must combine their skills to achieve the best possible occlusion and facial esthetics. The surgical and orthodontic plan of therapy is designed to correct the patient's dentofacial deformity. Surgical reduction of facial height and proper alignment of the teeth by orthodontic means are common denominators of successful treatment. By properly planned and executed Le Fort I maxillary osteotomies, the vertical dimensions of the face can be shortened to improve the esthetic balance between the nose, upper lip, teeth, and chin and achieve lip competency. Variable open-bite and nonopen-bite maxillary deformities in forty adults with the long face syndrome were corrected by Le Fort I osteotomy and orthodontic treatment. The technical problems encountered in planning and executing treatment are discussed and illustrated by selected case reports.