Le Fort Osteotomy
What Is a Le Fort Osteotomy Surgery?
The Le Fort Osteotomy is a type of jaw surgery used to correct an abnormally positioned jaw that gives rise to malocclusion problems (misalignment of teeth and jaws).
There are three types of Le Fort Osteotomies:
1. Le Fort I Osteotomy
The Le Fort I Osteotomy surgery is the “workhorse” procedure for moving the upper jaw to treat upper jaw malocclusion and cleft palate. The procedure was invented over 50 years ago and has been performed thousands of times. It is very safe and useful because it of its ability to position the upper jaw anywhere within three dimensions to reshape the face and improve the bite. The Le Fort I Osteotomy procedure is chosen most commonly when the upper jaw needs to be moved forward and the nose and cheeks do not need attention.
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LEARN MORE2. Le Fort Ii Osteotomy
The Le Fort II Osteotomy involves the movement of the nose and upper jaw together. One of the rarer osteotomies because it isn’t required as often (only in 2-5% of cases such as Treacher Collins or other very unique cases). This osteotomy allows for lengthening of the nose along with movement of the upper jaw in select cases where this effect is required.
3. Le Fort Iii Osteotomy
The Le Fort III Osteotomy is designed the move the entire face forward — including portions of the eye sockets — for the purpose of achieving a more harmonious and symmetrical appearance in those in whom facial disharmony results from pan-facial hypoplasia. The Le Fort III Osteotomy is typically used in the treatment of mid-face problems and deficiencies.
