Virtual three-dimensional planning in orthognathic surgery From orthognathic to orthofacial surgery

Recent decades have seen not only considerable advances in the techniques of orthognathic surgery and the application of new osteosynthesis methods, but also especially in terms of preoperative planning. Virtual 3D planning has become established in clinical routine, with proven accuracy superior to that of conventional planning, particularly in patients with asymmetry. The option of performing soft tissue simulation has had a decisive influence on the planning process and facilitates communication between treating practitioners and also with patients. The trend is clearly moving away from orthognathic and towards orthofacial surgery, in which facial harmony is considered equally important as function. Furthermore, the use of patient-specific implants enables exact intraoperative implementation of the 3D plan without the necessity of positioning splints. However, despite all technical improvements, close cooperation between orthodontists and surgeons is still the principal requirement for successful treatment.