Midfacial Soft Tissue Changes After Reduction Malarplasty: A Computed Tomographic Study.

Background: The reduction malarplasty has become one of the most popular esthetic surgeries among Asian women to improve facial contour. However, it is still controversial whether midfacial soft tissue changes after surgery, and more studies are needed.

Methods: This retrospective observational study reviewed 30 patients who underwent L-shaped reduction malarplasty during January 2018 and August 2019. The preoperative and postoperative soft tissue thickness and the angle of nasolabial fold of the midfacial were assessed using photographs, three-dimensional skull computerized tomography images, and the Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale.

Results: The postoperative average level of nasolabial fold angle was lower than that observed in preoperative conditions, with the difference being statistically significant (t = -10.262, P < 0.001). The postoperative fifth and sixth layers of soft tissue in the midface were significantly higher than those observed in preoperative tissues.

Conclusions: Although L-shaped reduction malarplasty has evident effects on soft tissue changes of middle face, they are within acceptable ranges and do not affect patient satisfaction.