Lefort Surgery

Understand Lefort Surgery for Midface Advancement and Correction

What is Lefort Surgery?

Lefort surgery is a maxillofacial surgical procedure that involves the advancement and correction of the midface. It is commonly performed to treat developmental deformities, such as a recessed midface or a cleft palate. The surgery involves making incisions in the upper jaw and then repositioning the midface bones to achieve the desired correction.

Types of Lefort Surgery

There are three main types of Lefort surgery, classified according to the level of the midface that is being corrected:

• Lefort I: Corrects the lower midface, including the maxilla and the nasal bones.
• Lefort II: Corrects the middle midface, including the maxilla and the zygomatic bones.
• Lefort III: Corrects the upper midface, including the maxilla, the zygomatic bones, and the frontal bone.

Procedure of Lefort Surgery

Lefort surgery typically involves the following steps:

1. Preoperative Planning: The surgeon plans the surgery based on the patient's individual needs and goals.
2. Anesthesia: The surgery is performed under general anesthesia.
3. Incisions and Bone Cuts: The surgeon makes incisions in the upper jaw and then cuts through the facial bones to separate the midface from the rest of the skull.
4. Bone Repositioning: The midface bones are then repositioned to achieve the desired correction.
5. Fixation: The repositioned bones are fixed in place using plates, screws, or wires.
6. Closure: The incisions are closed with sutures.

Recovery from Lefort Surgery

Recovery from Lefort surgery can take several weeks:

• Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for 2-3 days after surgery.
• Swelling and Bruising: There will be significant swelling and bruising around the eyes and cheeks.
• Pain: Pain is usually managed with medication.
• Diet: Patients will be on a liquid diet for the first few days after surgery.
• Activity Restrictions: Patients will need to limit their activities for several weeks after surgery.

Outcomes of Lefort Surgery

Lefort surgery can provide significant improvements in the appearance and function of the midface. The outcomes of surgery vary depending on the complexity of the case and the patient's individual healing process. However, in general, most patients experience positive results, including:

• Improved facial balance and symmetry
• Improved nasal breathing
• Reduced facial pain and discomfort
• Enhanced quality of life