What is a typical overexpansion percentage for Lefort procedures?

In Lefort procedures, particularly when discussing maxillary expansion, a typical overexpansion percentage is generally considered to fall within the range of 20-25%. This percentage is critical because it allows for the functional correction of skeletal discrepancies, ensuring that the maxilla is adequately expanded to achieve stable occlusion and improve facial aesthetics.

When planning surgical approaches, such as in Lefort I osteotomies, having an understanding of this range helps orthodontists and oral surgeons optimize treatment outcomes. Overexpansion is necessary to accommodate tooth movement and to create a favorable environment for growth, especially in adolescents. Hence, practitioners frequently apply this percentage to achieve predictable and functional results, which aligns with the established guidelines in orthodontic treatment planning.

While higher or lower percentages may occasionally be used based on specific clinical scenarios, the standard and most commonly referenced overexpansion percentage for Lefort procedures is indeed between 20% and 25%. This range has been validated through clinical studies and is consistently applied in orthodontic practice.