The orthodontist determines the timing while the procedure is carried out by either a maxillo-facial surgeon or plastic surgeon. The bone graft ensures that teeth have a stable support to erupt through. A lip revision can sometimes be carried out at the same time as the bone graft if the initial lip repair is deemed to be some way unsatisfactory. Rhinoplasty Rhinoplasty, or nasal surgery, is designed to improve the appearance of the nose. It may be carried out because the nose appears either flat or asymmetrical.
Ear cartilage is used to build up the flat nose.
Early repair may not prove sufficient as the shape of the nose changes constantly throughout the teenage years requiring further intervention. For this reason you may find the surgeon reluctant to recommend such early nasal surgery. Indeed this surgery is often left until the age of 16-18 years. In February 1999 a report into the development of oral and maxillofacial surgery services in the Eastern Health Board region was published. The terms of reference included a review of current and anticipated future needs, existing services and resources, identify shortcomings, and indicate any additional resources required.