Endoscopic techniques have revolutionized current surgical techniques
and have now been introduced to plastic surgery. Advantages of endosco
pic assistance include direct visualization, hidden scars, and decreas
ed morbidity. We sought to implement endoscopic techniques to recontou
r the facial skeleton and avoid the disadvantages of open procedures.
A standard video system and endoscopic instrumentation including a 4-m
m 30-degree endoscope and a power bur were used. Cadaveric dissections
were performed before clinical use. Using endoscopic assistance, the
frontal bone of a 42-year-old Korean woman with bony deformities was v
isualized and sculpted using a power bur. An uneventful postoperative
course ensued. This case illustrates the feasibility of using endoscop
ic techniques in forehead recontouring and sets the stage for further
work in malar and mandible recontouring.