LAFH
Pronunciation: ell-ay-eff-aitch
Also written as: LAFH — Lower Anterior Facial Height
Abbreviation for Lower Anterior Facial Height; the cephalometric measurement from the anterior nasal spine to menton, representing the vertical extent of the lower face.
Full Definition
LAFH stands for Lower Anterior Facial Height and is measured on a lateral cephalogram from the anterior nasal spine (ANS) to menton (Me). It is one of the most clinically significant vertical measurements in dentofacial orthopedics, as its proportion relative to upper anterior facial height (UAFH) determines whether a patient has a hyper- or hypodivergent growth pattern. An increased LAFH is often associated with open bite tendencies, clockwise mandibular rotation, and a Class II skeletal pattern, whereas a decreased LAFH is linked to deep bite and Class II division 2 presentations. Editors should expand the abbreviation at first use and verify it is not confused with 'UAFH' or other facial height acronyms.
Usage
Usage note: Expand to 'lower anterior facial height (LAFH)' on first use. Do not use 'AFH' as a shorthand if the document also references upper anterior facial height.
In Context
- "A markedly elevated LAFH, combined with a high mandibular plane angle, indicated a hyperdivergent facial type requiring growth modification." — Treatment planning summary
- "Post-retention records at two years showed a stable LAFH with no significant vertical relapse." — Journal article results section