Changing Mandible Contour Using Computer Designed/Computer Manufactured Alloplastic Implants

Abstract

Abstract Background The shape of the mandible is the fundamental determinant of the appearance and sexual dimorphism of the lower one-third of the face. Utilization of computer-aided design/computer-aided manufactured (CAD/CAM) alloplastic implants provides unparalleled planning and sophistication in the correction of skeletal deficiencies, irregularities, and asymmetry. Objectives This study presented the rationale, indications, techniques, and results of the senior author’s (M.J.Y.) 15-year experience employing CAD/CAM alloplastic implants to correct deficiencies and asymmetries of the mandible. Methods A retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was reviewed of all patients who underwent aesthetic augmentation of the mandible employing CAD/CAM alloplastic implants by the senior author. Results Over a 15-year period, 123 patients underwent mandibular augmentation utilizing CAD/CAM alloplastic implants. The majority of patients were men (76.4%) with an average age of 31 years (range, 24-63 years). All implants were bilateral. Complications included infection requiring implant removal (2.4%) and patient dissatisfaction resulting in either implant revision (4.1%) or implant removal (2.4%). Conclusions As described here, CAD/CAM alloplastic implants are an effective modality to augment aesthetic mandible contour deficiencies. Level of Evidence: 4