[Correction of prominent malar complex by L-type osteotomy].
OBJECTIVE
To present a new method for correction of prominent malar complex by L-shaped osteotomy through an intraoral incision.


METHODS
Based on the anatomical characteristics of the malar complex, we designed a new L-shaped osteotomy for malar eminence reduction. The procedure includes oblique incision of the upper part of the mala, vertical incision of the anterior part of the mala and "greenstick" fracture of the zygomatic arches. According to the severity of malar prominence, we resect part of the anterior-inferior part of the mala and lower the malar complex.


RESULTS
This method was used in 39 patients with prominent malar complex. Of them, 32 were symmetrical and 7 were unsymmetrical. All the patients obtained good results.


CONCLUSIONS
L-shaped osteotomy for correction of prominent malar complex is a relatively ideal surgical method with the advantages of simpler manipulation, fewer complications, better result, and ensuring the intactness of the structural characteristics of the malar complex.
Gui
Lai
L
Craniomaxillofacial Department, Plastic Surgery Hospital of Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100041, China.
Deng
Cheng
C
Zhang
Zhiyong
Z
Tent
Li
L
Huang
Lvping
L
Jin
Ji
J
Niu
Feng
F
Yu
Bing
B
Ji
Ying
Y
Luo
Jinchao
J
Xia
Delin
D
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010027:Osteotomy / Q000379:methods*; D013518:Surgery, Plastic / Q000379:methods*; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D015050:Zygoma / Q000601:surgery*