New method for an evaluation of the esthetical improvements resulting from a mandibular angle reduction

Objectives: This paper proposes Han’s ratio as an objective and quantitative comparative result obtained from pre and postoperative data in patients with a mandibular angle reduction. Materials and Methods: Thirty patients, 12 men and 18 women, who visited the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery with the chief com-plaints of skeletal mandibular prognathism and prominent mandibular angle were selected. The subjects were classified into 3 groups according to the types of surgical procedures involved. Group A consisted of patients who underwent mandibular angle resection and mandibular setback. Group B was comprised of patients with mandibular angle resection, mandibular setback and genioplasty. Group C consisted of patients with mandibular angle resection, mandibular setback, Le Fort I osteotomy, and genioplasty. The landmarks placed in pre and postoperative frontal photographs were used to obtain the Han’s ratio in each group. The Han’s ratios were compared pre- and postoperation and according to the surgical techniques applied. Results: Of the 3 groups who had undergone a mandibular angle resection, all showed a statistically significant increase in Han’s ratio. On the other hand, there was no statistically significant difference based on the surgical techniques used. Conclusion: The ratio of the lateral lower face proposed in this study is a potential indicator of postoperative esthetic enhancement in mandibular angle reduction surgery.