Name of the Procedure:

Vestibuloplasty; posterior, unilateral

Summary

Vestibuloplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to reshape and augment the mouth's vestibule - the area between the cheeks, lips, and gums. The "posterior, unilateral" designation indicates that the surgery is performed on one side of the mouth towards the back.

Purpose

The procedure primarily addresses insufficient denture support caused by inadequate vestibular depth. The goal is to deepen the oral vestibule to enhance denture stability, improve oral function, and increase comfort for denture wearers.

Indications

• Patients with inadequate denture retention or stability.
• Those experiencing discomfort due to shallow vestibular depth.
• Prior failed attempts at using prosthetic solutions alone.

Preparation

• Patients are typically advised to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Adjustments to medications, particularly blood thinners, may be necessary.
• Pre-operative assessment includes dental examinations and imaging studies.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is given local anesthesia to numb the treatment area.
2. An incision is made in the mucosal tissue in the posterior vestibule.
3. The tissue is carefully repositioned to a deeper level, sometimes supported by grafts.
4. Sutures are applied to secure the new tissue configuration.
5. Gauze or a special dressing may be placed to protect the surgical site.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Vestibuloplasty is usually performed in an outpatient surgical center or hospital.

Personnel

• Oral and maxillofacial surgeon or periodontist
• Surgical nurse or dental assistant
• Anesthesiologist, if general anesthesia is used

Risks and Complications

• Common risks include infection, bleeding, and pain at the surgical site.
• Rare complications include graft failure, excessive scarring, or persistent swelling.
• Proper post-operative care minimizes risks.

Benefits

• Improved denture stability and retention.
• Enhanced oral function and comfort.
• Patients typically notice improvement within a few weeks of the procedure.

Recovery

• Post-operative instructions include soft food diet and oral hygiene measures.
• Patients may need to avoid strenuous activities and follow-up visits are required to monitor healing.
• Full recovery may take several weeks.

Alternatives

• Denture adhesives or relines.
• Soft tissue grafts alone without surgical deepening.
• Pros include non-surgical approaches being less invasive, but they may not offer long-term solutions like vestibuloplasty.

Patient Experience

• Patients can expect some discomfort and swelling post-procedure, managed by pain relief medications.
• There might be limitations on speaking and eating initially.
• Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and address any concerns.