Steven M. Sullivan, DDS, Editor

The historical evolution of orthognathic surgery is nothing short of remarkable. Had it not been for the inquisitiveness of the Oral and Maxillofacial surgeons who preceded us, the art, as well as the science, of orthognathic surgery would be poorly understood.

It is through their efforts that we have been able to provide one of the most complex procedures in our specialty with a high degree of accuracy, reliability, and excellent outcomes. Orthognathic surgery has touched and improved the lives of many of our patients and will continue to do so as technology helps us refine planning and perhaps even delivery of the procedure. Although technology can eliminate steps in the presurgical phase by eliminating lab work or minimize how invasive it is, it will never replace the discerning eye and precise execution of the plan by an experienced surgeon.

The goal of this issue was to call on some of the most experienced surgeons in the world and glean from them the tips and techniques that have made orthognathic surgery second nature. We hope to provide the reader with the step-by-step techniques and tips to improve their ability when performing these complex procedures.

Orthognathic surgery is my passion, a passion that was ignited by Bob Markowitz as a resident and fostered throughout my career by two very special people. First, my wife, Veronica, who has given me unyielding support as I swam against the current to make orthognathic surgery the focus of my surgical practice. She has been there all along the way, encouraging me to teach, to technically innovate, and to share my experience with my residents and those surgeons from around the world with the same passion who have visited Oklahoma.

The second individual I would like to acknowledge is Professor Johan Reyneke. Johan took me under his wing 17 years ago and shared his vast knowledge and experience, which was obtained by having done nearly 9000 orthognathic cases. Johan not only freely shared that experience, but he also mentored me, challenged me, and made me a better orthognathic surgeon. But most importantly, he became my dear friend.