Superior repositioning of the maxilla: stability and soft tissue osseous relations.

The skeletal stability and soft-tissue changes associated with superior repositioning of the maxilla by Le Fort I osteotomy or simultaneous anterior and posterior maxillary osteotomies was studied in thirty patients by means of a computerized craniofacial model. Excellent skeletal stability was demonstrated 14 months postoperatively. Postsurgically, the reduction in lower face height and amount of maxillary incisor exposure resulted in improved facial balance. The use of a computerized osseous and soft-tissue craniofacial model has added a new dimension to evaluation of surgical changes associated with correction of dentofacial and craniofacial deformities.