Unilateral Cheilorhinoseptognathoplasty

Unilateral chelyorinoseptognatoplasty is a complex surgical procedure aimed at correcting deformities of the lip (chelyo-), nose (rhino-), septum (septoplasty), and jaw (gnatoplasty) on one side of the face. This procedure is often performed to treat congenital conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, as well as acquired deformities due to trauma. The goal of the surgery is not only to improve the aesthetic appearance of the face but also to restore functions such as breathing, speech, and feeding. At "Dobrobut" Medical Center, experienced surgeons use advanced methods to achieve optimal results for patients who require this procedure.

When to See a Doctor

Consultation with a specialist is necessary if any of the following signs of pathology are observed:

• Noticeable asymmetry or deformities of the lip, nose, and jaw, especially if they have been present since birth or resulted from trauma.
• Breathing difficulties: If a child or adult patient experiences difficulties breathing, especially through the nose, this may indicate structural and functional changes.
• Feeding problems: Infants with asymmetry may face difficulties during breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, indicating the need for surgical correction.
• Speech problems that may be caused by deformities of the lip, nose, and jaw require specialist consultation.
• Social or psychological issues and the need to improve aesthetic appearance.

Indications and Contraindications

Unilateral chelyorinoseptognatoplasty may be indicated in the following cases:

• Congenital deformities, such as unilateral cleft lip and palate, which require surgical correction to restore normal function and appearance.
• Acquired deformities, such as injuries to the lip, nose, and jaw, leading to significant asymmetry or functional problems.
• Aesthetic concerns and desires to improve the symmetry of the face for cosmetic reasons.

Contraindications may be related to severe diseases of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems, as well as acute infectious processes in the oral cavity, nose, and surrounding areas.

Diagnosis

To determine the necessity of surgical intervention, the surgeon conducts a thorough examination of the lip, nose, and jaw to assess the degree of deformation and functional impairments. Using imaging methods (X-ray, CT, MRI), doctors obtain accurate information about structural abnormalities. Laboratory tests allow for assessing the overall health of the patient and identifying potential contraindications to surgery. 

After determining indications and surgical tactics, the patient is prepared for the operation. During the consultation, the doctor will explain the details of the procedure, expected results, possible risks, and post-operative care instructions. The anesthesiologist will provide recommendations regarding dietary restrictions and answer questions about anesthesia.

How the Surgery is Performed

Surgical intervention for chelyorinoseptognatoplasty typically includes the following stages:

• General anesthesia.
• An incision is made on the affected side of the lip and nose. The surgeon uses techniques that allow incisions to be hidden in natural folds to reduce the visibility of scars in the future.
• Correction of the deformity. The surgeon moves the tissues of the lip and nose, restores the septum, and corrects the jaw deformity. The goal of the surgery is to achieve facial symmetry and restore functional capabilities.
• Closing the incisions: After completing the necessary corrective procedures, the incisions are sutured and closed with sterile dressings.

Recovery

The recovery process after chelyorinoseptognatoplasty can be quite prolonged because several structures are involved.

After the surgery, patients remain under observation in the post-operative room, where the medical staff monitors vital signs, reactions to anesthesia, and administers pain relief medications.

In the initial stages of rehabilitation, patients are allowed to consume only soft food. Depending on the healing speed, they will gradually transition to normal nutrition.

To prevent excessive strain, physical activity is limited throughout the rehabilitation period.

The patient is regularly examined by the doctor, who checks the healing process, evaluates the surgery outcomes, and provides recommendations for further care.

Complications

Chelyorinoseptognatoplasty is a complex procedure, so complications can occur. These may include bleeding during or after the surgery, scarring that can form despite the use of modern materials and techniques, and possible nerve damage (sometimes they are located atypically), leading to numbness or chronic pain. Occasionally, despite the goal of achieving symmetry, residual asymmetries may remain, which might require additional corrective procedures.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of complications after unilateral chelyorinoseptognatoplasty, preventive measures may include:

• Conducting a thorough medical evaluation of the patient before the surgery to identify potential risks and adjust the surgical plan.
• Proper wound care, following post-operative care instructions, including maintaining cleanliness and dryness of the surgical site, which helps reduce the risk of infection.
• Providing information about the signs of possible complications, such as increased sensitivity, swelling, changes in skin color, or other anomalies, so that the patient can promptly seek medical assistance.
• Timely follow-up visits allow doctors to monitor the healing process and identify potential complications early.

At "Dobrobut" Medical Center, we adhere to a comprehensive approach to any medical or aesthetic issue. Our doctors use advanced technologies, prioritize patient safety and comfort, and provide support at all stages of the surgery.