ORTHOGNATHIC SURGERY: TECHNICAL ADVANCES AND FUNCTIONAL AND AESTHETIC IMPACTS
Keywords:
Orthognathic Surgery, Virtual Surgical Planning, Dentofacial Deformities, Artificial Intelligence, Functional Outcomes, Psychosocial Factors, MasticationAbstract
Orthognathic surgery, an established procedure for correcting moderate to severe dentofacial deformities, is undergoing rapid technological transformation. This narrative review analyzes technical advancements and their functional and aesthetic impacts. Recent literature demonstrates that Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have become essential tools, increasing the precision and predictability of outcomes in complex anatomy. However, treatment success transcends technology, critically depending on functional and psychosocial outcomes. Studies indicate that masticatory function, although affected in the short term, tends to return to preoperative levels within 9 to 12 months. Furthermore, pre-surgical psychosocial factors, such as positive patient expectations and low anxiety levels, are significant predictors of better functional outcomes and less postoperative anxiety. The use of online forums by patients for emotional support suggests gaps in traditional education, reinforcing the need for an integrated multidisciplinary approach.
