The purpose of this study is to introduce a new method of performing mandibular contouring surgery, more effectively and easily, and to reduce postoperative complication and evaluate its results and usefulness. 9 patients underwent mandibular contouring surgery designed by authors from August 1997 to January 1998. Angle-spitting ostectomy was designed from occlusal plane of ramus to the level of second molar tooth, avoiding the neurovasular bundle. After burring of upper buccal portion of mandible, bicortical drilling was performed for ostectomy with osteotome. Burring of irregular margin was performed at the end of the procedure as a last step. 400cc reservoir was connected to the vacuum cannula having internal diameter of 2.7mm and external dressing was not performed except one patient who has experienced. Except skin necrosis and hypertrophic scar in one case as a result of extensive pressure dressing, no other complication has occurred. Advantages of mandibular contouring surgery by angle-splitting ostectomy were as following.
(1) easily performable
(2) low risk of soft tissue damage as well as neurovascular bundle injury
(3) pricewisely resonable, because of no usage of disposable oscillation saw
(4) effective mandibular contouring surgery by reducing the width of lower face
(5) natural lateral view due to normal range of postoperative gonial angle
We came to conclusion that mandibular contouring surgery by angle-splitting ostectomy is a new excellent method that prevents postoperative complication and provides effective lower face contouring.