Abstract

COSTA, Káren Laurene Dalla et al. Evaluation of the quality of life in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery. Rev. cir. traumatol. buco-maxilo-fac. [online]. 2012, vol.12, n.2, pp. 81-92. ISSN 1808-5210.

Goal: To evaluate the degree of satisfaction degree of patients submitted to orthognatic surgery, attended at the MaxiloFacial Surgery Unit in Ponta Grossa, Paraná. Methodology: a questionnaire was applied to 15 patients submitted to orthognatic surgery. The questionnaire consisted of 20 questions on lifestyle before and after the surgical procedure, and was designed to produce quick answers, with the chance of including personal opinions. as this was not a statistical analysis the patient data from the interviews were launched in Microsoft Excel and submitted to a qualitative analysis. Results: a significant improvement was observed in self-image and self-esteem. Conclusion: The vast majority of the patients decided to undergo orthognatic surgery on the recommendation of other professionals, such as their orthodontist; the family's psychological support was important in the patients' recovery; following surgery the patients noticed major changes in their facial characteristics and also in their self-esteem; many of the aesthetic and functional problems reported by the patients prior to surgery are resolved as a result of the procedure; liaison between the professionals involved in treatment is of crucial importance in achieving success; and success is also due to an understanding of the stages of the treatment on the part of the patient and his or her family.

Keywords : Quality of life; Orthognathic surgery; Self-esteem.