undercorrections

Undercorrections are outcomes in which the final result falls short of the intended correction. In medical and surgical contexts, a planned correction aims to restore function, alignment, or appearance; when the achieved change is less than planned, the result is an undercorrection. Undercorrections can occur across a range of procedures, including orthopaedic osteotomies, orthodontic tooth movement, refractive surgery, and cosmetic or reconstructive interventions. They are often discussed alongside overcorrections and residual defects, since each represents a deviation from the planned outcome and may require additional treatment.

Causes of undercorrection are multifactorial. They can stem from inaccurate preoperative assessment, planning errors, or intraoperative factors such as tissue resistance or device slippage. Biological variability in healing and remodeling, swelling, and inflammation can alter the final result. In growing individuals, ongoing growth may adjust previously corrected structures. Patient noncompliance with postoperative guidelines can also influence the degree of correction achieved.

Consequences of undercorrection vary by context but may include persistent deformity or misalignment, limited function, aesthetic dissatisfaction, or residual refractive error. In some cases, undercorrection necessitates staged procedures or revision or retreatment to approach the intended target.

Management typically focuses on minimizing risk through thorough planning, realistic targeting, and close follow-up. Strategies may include staged corrections, simulations or planning tools, and consideration of slight overcorrection in advance to offset anticipated undercorrection. In refractive or cosmetic procedures, precise measurement and controlled healing support more predictable outcomes.