Correction of facial asymmetry using a patient-specific three-dimensional printed polycarprolactone/beta tricalcium phosphate scaffold: a case report

Abstract

Facial asymmetry is difficult to correct mainly because of the large volume of implant required for reconstruction, which is hard to estimate. Computer-aided surgical planning using three-dimensional (3D)-printed implants is developing rapidly, with promising clinical results being reported in reconstructive, orthognathic, and other surgical fields. A 54-year-old male patient presented with facial asymmetry caused by fibular free flap displacement. This was surgically corrected using a customized, 3D-printed polycarprolactone/ beta tricalcium phosphate scaffold. The implant fit well and was easily fixed to the right mandibular angle area, resulting in an improvement in the facial contour of the patient. Throughout the follow-up period, the PCL/β-TCP implant was detected using an ultrasonic device and remained without volumetric change. There was also no wound dehiscence or implant displacement. Thus, a patient-specific 3D-printed biodegradable scaffold can effectively facilitate surgical correction of facial asymmetry. However, facial contour sequelae, stability, and resorption must be assessed over a long-term follow-up period.