An overview of patient-reported outcome measures to analyze the quality of life after orthognathic surgery

Abstract

Society imparts great importance to physical appearance in this modern age. The physical and psycho-social impact of a dentofacial deformity on an individual is often impossible to assess with certainty. A facial deformity can profoundly affect the quality of life and thereby entailing lifelong adjustments. Facial aesthetics affect an individual’s confidence and their overall acceptance in society, which in turn has an apparent effect on their quality of life. Corrective jaw surgeries are indicated in cases not amenable to produce acceptable post-treatment results with orthodontics alone. Orthognathic surgery aims to produce a more aesthetic facial appearance and strives to improve stomatognathic functions in the process.  WHO defines Quality of Life as-An individual’s perception of their position in life in the context of the culture and value systems in which they live and concerning their goals, expectations, standards and concerns. It is a broad-ranging concept affected in a complicated way by the person’s physical health, psychological state, level of independence, social relationships, personal beliefs and their relationship to salient features of their environment. The impact of dentofacial deformities on an individual’s holistic emotional, physical and social development has been a focus of research for a long time. Several patients reported outcome scales are employed to assess the quality of life and this review aims to discuss the use of these scales as an indicator of successful surgical treatment. At the same time, these scales may serve as a patient education tool because a holistic health indicator is required which considers the psychological well being of the patient along with regards to functional and aesthetic demands before formulating a surgical treatment plan.