Reconstruction of Complex Facial Asymmetry: Problems and Refinements

Abstract

This article describes 2 patients with complex facial asymmetry characterized by hemiarhinia, microorbitism, palpebral fissure shortening, ipsilateral canthal dystopia, maxillomandibular hypoplasia, and occlusal plane inclination. These unusual phenotypes are part of the oculoauriculo-vertebral spectrum. Their devastating functional, esthetic, and psychologic effects demand the use of different craniofacial surgery techniques, in order to alleviate the profound impact of these pathologies. Initial skeletal balance through bimaxillary distraction osteogenesis and orbital expansion sets the basis for further reconstruction of the nose and periorbital area with local tissue.