The psychosocial impact of orthognathic surgery: A systematic review

The aim of this study was to review the reported psychosocial benefits of o rthognathic surgery. A systematic review of the literature was conducted us ing MEDLINE (1966 to December 2000), Web of Science (1981 to December 2000) , and reference sections of identified articles. We also hand searched key orthodontic, oral surgery, and psychology journals. No language limitations were imposed. Randomized controlled trials, other controlled clinical tria ls, prospective studies (with or without controls), and retrospective studi es (with or without controls) were considered for inclusion. Two reviewers extracted the data and independently assessed the quality of the studies. I n all, 29 studies, including a number of prospective and retrospective stud ies, were identified as relevant. The results of the review indicated that orthognathic patients experience psychosocial benefits as a result of ortho gnathic surgery, including improved self-confidence, body and facial image, and social adjustment. However, there were wide variations in the study de signs and a lack of uniformity in measuring the psychosocial constructs. Th is made it difficult to quantify the extent and the duration of the psychos ocial benefits.