Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)
Genioplasty is surgery of the chin. The chin is a prominence of the lower jawbone (mandible) and overlying tissues. Two notable muscles on the chin are the genioglossus and the mentalis. The genioglossus is behind the chin under the tongue. It is the muscle that pulls the tongue forward when you breathe, swallow, and stick out your tongue. The mentalis is on the front of the chin. It pushes the lip up and when it is used it gets a puckered appearance.
When a person has a chin that sticks out too much or too little, it often indicates a problem with the entire jawbone and the teeth may not line up correctly (overbite or underbite). If this is the case, Orthognathic surgery should be considered.
If the chin is the lone cause of the discrepancy or if the tooth discrepancy can be corrected with orthodontics and the patient does not wish to undergo orthognathic surgery then a Genioplasty may be considered.
Genioplasty can be accomplished by cutting (osteotomizing) the chin and moving it forward or backward by a sliding technique. It can also be moved up or down or combinations as in forward and down. It is then screwed or plated in place with titanium hardware. Sometimes a gap is created between the bones and a bone graft is needed between the bony segments. The surgery is done via an incision inside the mouth.
An alternative to osteotomies for chin advancement are augmentations with pre-formed fitted (sized to each patient) chin augmentation materials. Our team uses Stryker and Implantech chin prostheses for facial implant procedures.
(images courtesy of www.stryker.com and www.implantech.com)
These implants are usually placed through a small incision below the chin (but can also be placed through a larger incision on the inside of the mouth) and fixed in place with titanium screws (usually 2).
All Genioplasty procedures can be done in our office.
Postoperatively the patient will wear a chin-neck dressing for at least 24 hours.
WHY Reynolds oral and facial surgery?
Reynolds Oral and Facial Surgery is one of the best oral and facial surgery teams around. With more than 20 years of experience and extensive training, we know what it takes to make sure your procedure runs smoothly. Dr. Reynolds and Dr. Gresehover have a keen eye for detail and strive to make sure to answer any questions you may have. Our team understands that medical procedures can be very nerve-racking experiences which is why we make sure you are comfortable and have the best experience possible. We also invest heavily in the most advanced surgical technology available ensuring you get the best results possible.