A novel approach for correcting mandibular asymmetry with a combination of autologous fat and alloplastic implants

Abstract

Unilateral mandibular asymmetry has numerous etiologies. In the absence of current dentofacial deformities, this asymmetry, although not functionally debilitating, can still be troubling to the patient. There are several approaches to correcting this asymmetry, mainly focusing on the facial skeleton. However, with unilateral asymmetry, correction of the hard tissue alone often produces a suboptimal result. The overlying soft tissue becomes stretched, producing an angulated appearance dissimilar to the contralateral normal side. The authors present a case report of a patient with mandibular asymmetry who was treated with our novel technique of intentionally undercorrecting the skeletal asymmetry with alloplastic implants while augmenting the overlying soft tissue with autologous fat grafting. © 2010 The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, Inc.