Management of the growing patient with mandibular dentofacial deformities p
resents a unique and challenging problem for orthodontists and surgeons. Th
e surgical procedures required for correction of the deformity may affect p
ostsurgical growth and dentofacial development. Further, facial growth may
continue postoperatively and negate the benefits of surgery performed, resu
lting in treatment outcomes that are less than ideal. From individual patie
nt characteristics, the type of deformity, and the indications for early su
rgical intervention, it is possible to effectively treat many cases during
growth. A thorough understanding of facial growth patterns is essential, an
d each case needs to be evaluated individually. Surgery is often undertaken
with the expectation that additional treatment, including more surgery, ma
y be required after the completion of growth. The material presented here i
s based on the available research and the senior author's clinical experien
ce of more than 25 years in the correction of mandibular deformities in the
growing patient. Advantages and disadvantages of specific surgical techniq
ues for correction of common mandibular deformities and pertinent age and s
urgical considerations are discussed. The material should be viewed as a ge
neral outline that provides broad guidelines for management of these patien
ts. The management of maxillary deformities will be discussed in Part 2 of
this article.