## 4 The Emergence of Virtual Surgical Planning  
Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP) is a notable advancement in the field of orthognathic and oral maxillofacial surgery, signifying the ongoing evolution of these surgical practices. It is an outcome of the digital revolution in healthcare, employing computer technologies, advanced imaging, and simulation software to meticulously plan intricate surgical procedures [52]. This innovative technique allows surgeons to visualize the operation in a virtual environment prior to its actual occurrence, thereby augmenting the predictability, precision, and customization of surgical procedures to meet the unique needs of individual patients (Figure 3). By utilizing VSP, surgeons can gain a comprehensive understanding of the surgical procedure before operating on the patient [53]. This ability to visualize and simulate the surgery in advance enhances the predictability of outcomes, as potential challenges and complications can be identified and addressed prior to the actual procedure [54]. This can significantly reduce the risk of unforeseen complications and allow for better planning and preparation.  
Figure 3: A virtual surgical plan designed specifically for facial contouring surgery. By employing the mirroring technique, areas of asymmetry can be identified and visualized using different colors. Furthermore, during the simulation surgery, an accurate visualization of the post-operative mandible can be achieved. This virtual surgical plan includes the use of a surgical guide, which greatly aids in the precise removal of bony excess. Additionally, the surgical guide can be produced on a 3D model, enhancing the overall accuracy and efficiency of the surgical procedure.  
Furthermore, VSP enables surgeons to achieve a higher level of precision in their surgical interventions [55]. By virtually manipulating the patient's anatomy and simulating different surgical approaches, surgeons can evaluate the potential impact of their interventions and make more informed decisions regarding the most appropriate course of action. This precision can lead to improved surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Another significant advantage of VSP is its ability to tailor surgical procedures to the specific needs of individual patients. Each patient's anatomy and condition are unique, and VSP allows surgeons to customize their approach based on these individual characteristics. This patient-specific tailoring can result in a more personalized and effective surgical intervention, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and a higher quality of care.  
Traditional planning methods for orthognathic and oral maxillofacial surgeries predominantly relied on two-dimensional imaging techniques such as X-rays and hand-drawn sketches for preoperative planning [4]. This approach, although functional, was associated with several limitations including lack of spatial context, variability in interpretation, and inability to customize the procedure based on individual patient anatomy [56]. The advent of VSP has addressed these limitations, offering a three-dimensional, highly interactive, and patient-specific approach to surgical planning [52]. With VSP, surgeons can manipulate 3D models of a patient's anatomy, plan the surgical approach, anticipate potential challenges, and even rehearse the procedure, all before the patient is on the operating table [57]. This shift towards virtual techniques not only facilitates better surgical outcomes but also improves efficiency, reduces surgical risk, and enhances patient satisfaction by allowing for a clear preoperative dialogue [15]. The use of these techniques represents a new era in orthognathic and oral maxillofacial surgery, one characterized by technological integration, precision, and individualized patient care.