When it comes to discussing the changes happenign to the facial stryctures, it is important to distinguish which bones are involved in process of separation and which sensory organs can potentially be involved.
What Bones are Separated with MARPE treatment?
MARPEFACE protocol was specifically designed to ensure that all changes occuring during 3D guided midpalatal piezocorticotomy assisted MARPE expansion (GMPA-MARPE) are accounted for.
Our (Dr.Koval and collegues, 2025) most recent research states that in an adult male patients, bones in the face separated at the pterygomaxillary suture after a special type of jaw expansion procedure (3D-guided midpalatal piezocorticotomy-assisted MARPE). The separation happened at the back wall of the maxillary sinus, where it connects with part of the sphenoid bone.
Previous research by Shi and others found that this type of expansion can also affect the eye socket (orbit). They saw that the eye socket got slightly wider when the sutures between certain facial bones spread apart — about 1.69 mm at the zygomaticomaxillary sutures and about 0.15 mm at the frontozygomatic sutures. In this study, no big changes were seen in those sutures alone.
The sutures mentioned make up the sides, bottom, and back of the eye socket. If they move, they can affect the position of the parts inside the orbit (like the eye and its support structures). One study reported changes in the lacrimomaxillary suture, but in our study, we didn’t see any changes there. Another study also showed no major changes in the size of the optic nerve covering when checked with ultrasound.
Orbit size is Changed with MARPE treatment
Does that mean any adverse effects on vision? None of the previously published reports showed evidence of the latter. Moreover, differences in bones of the middle face are common and can be linked to certain conditions. One example is Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate (UCLP), which can cause uneven eye sockets on one side of the face. On average, the size of the eye sockets (orbits) in humans can differ by about 0.8 mL between the right and left sides, and from person to person the difference can be as much as 200%. Individual variability palys significant role uis certain repsonses to expansion.
The Variability in Human Skulls Anatomy
Human skulls exhibit considerablevariability between the left and right sides, which can influence spatialbalance. Pre-existing cranial asymmetries appear to be the primary contributorsto asymmetry following MARPE treatment. Careful evaluation of dentoalveolardiscrepancies and axial tooth inclinations is essential for preventing andmanaging potential asymmetric dental arch outcomes during the post-expansionphase. Although peri-maxillary bone fractures are relatively uncommon, theiroccurrence is influenced by multiple factors. Adjunctive techniques, such as3D-guided midpalatal piezocorticotomy, show promise in significantly loweringthe risk of intra-expansion peri-maxillary fractures.
Who Can Benefit from MARPEFACE treatment?
Anyone who struggles with sleep disorders, chronic fatigue, mood disorders, or other health issues linked to poor breathing can potentially benefit from this treatment. However, it's also increasingly being recognized as a preventive measure. By ensuring that our oral structures are supporting our airway correctly, we can prevent potential health issues before they arise.
There is no age limit to the procedure although individual treatment plannign significantly varies.
Experience the Benefits of Airway Dentistry in Boca Raton
If you're ready to experience the benefits of MARPEFACE treatment, Dr. Svitlana Koval is here to help. With her expertise and commitment to patient care, she can provide personalized treatments designed to improve your oral health and overall well-being. Don't let poor oral health affect your quality of life. Reach out to Dr. Koval in Boca Raton, FL at (954) 600-2056 and take the first step towards better health today.