Three‐dimensional photogrammetry for surgical planning of tissue expansion in hemifacial microsomia

Background. We aim to illustrate the applications of 3‐dimensional (3‐D) photogrammetry for surgical planning and longitudinal assessment of the volumetric changes in hemifacial microsomia. Methods. A 3‐D photogrammetric system was employed for planning soft tissue expansion and transplantation of a vascularized scapular flap for a patient with hemifacial microsomia. The facial deficiency was calculated by superimposing a mirror of the normal side on the preoperative image. Postsurgical volumetric changes were monitored by serial superimposition of 3‐D images. Results. A total of 31 cm3 of tissue expansion was achieved within a period of 4 weeks. A scapular free flap measuring 8 cm × 5 cm was transplanted to augment the facial deficiency. Postsurgical shrinkage of the flap was observed mainly in the first 3 months and it was minimal thereafter. Conclusion. 3‐D photogrammetry can be used as a noninvasive objective tool for assessing facial deformity, planning, and postoperative follow‐up of surgical correction of facial asymmetry. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010