Long face syndrome

Long face syndrome is a craniofacial condition characterized by an excessively long lower third of the face, often associated with a disproportionally large mandible or lower jaw. This condition is also known as excessive vertical facial growth or hyperdivergent growth pattern.

Symptoms and Characteristics

The primary characteristic of long face syndrome is an elongated lower third of the face. This is often accompanied by a number of other symptoms and characteristics, including:

• A high palatal vault
• A narrow maxilla or upper jaw
• A long, narrow face
• A large, prominent nose
• A small chin
• A long philtrum (the area between the nose and upper lip)
• Difficulty closing the mouth completely, leading to mouth breathing
• Malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth

Causes

The exact cause of long face syndrome is unknown. However, it is believed to be a result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some researchers suggest that it may be related to mouth breathing during childhood, which can affect the development of the facial bones.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of long face syndrome is typically based on a physical examination and a detailed medical history. Imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, may also be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment for long face syndrome typically involves a combination of orthodontic treatment and orthognathic surgery. The goal of treatment is to improve the appearance of the face and correct any functional problems, such as difficulty breathing or chewing.

See Also

• Craniofacial
• Mandible
• Maxilla
• Malocclusion
• Orthognathic surgery

References

Long face syndrome Resources
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