Orthognathic surgery has as its objective the repositioning of basal bone in the framework of maxillo-mandibular deformities. Its results are both esthetic and functional. For adults, improved aesthetics results is becoming increasingly important in these procedures to the point where some patients seek only an esthetic amelioration and not a functional one. To achieve their aesthetic purpose, it is becoming progressively more necessary for orthodontists, oral surgeons, and general dentists to collaborate effectively in a well-coordinated effort.
In what has now become a true sub-specialty, orthognathic surgeons must master the complementary techniques of rhinoplasty, osseous apposition, aesthetic facial surgery, fat injection or injectable anti-aging treatments. In this article we propose a diagnostic classification based on the aesthetics of the adult smile and describe the therapeutic modalities appropriate for each element.