Would I be a candidate for Genioplasty or chin implants? (Photo)

Question

I am very unhappy with my facial side profile and I am finding myself constantly jutting my jaw forward to compensate for my weak chin, which in turn is causing jaw ache. I am aware I have an over projecting nose with slight dorsal hump, but in photos I have edited with a larger chin, this is much less obvious. I don't have an overbite, so would sliding genioplasty or chin implant benefit me more? Thanks, Matt.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Without an exam your question cannot be answered.  You will need to see an Oral/Maxillofacial surgeon to see if othognathic surgery, genioplasty or using an implant is best for your specific case. It should be noted that patients with severely weak jaws or abnormally functioning jaws may be better treated with other facial surgery (orthognathic surgery), although a chin augmentation may be an option at a later time. These patients should seek the advice of a plastic surgeon to determine which course is right for them. Here is some information to help you make this decision: Candidates for Chin Augmentation - Patients whose chin profiles are weak but have normally functioning jaws are candidates for Chin Augmentation. Many of these candidates have used injectable fillers in the past to strengthen the protrusion of their chins, but are looking for a permanent solution. If you are one of these patients, then you are a likely candidate for chin augmentation

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

Your results simulation is realistic and achievable, but only in the hands of a very very good surgeon, do a good investigation about reputations, backgrounds and statistics.Being an option, chin implants have serious disadvantages, specially in
the mid and long term, patients are rarely happy with them after 5-6
years, all are out by then or later.Consider the chin advancement by means of sliding genioplasty, the advantages are:-lifetime procedure, no more revision or renewal procedures-more natural than implants-no visibility of implant edges during gestures-improves
the double chin effect at the sub-mental muscles (floor of mouth)
hammock caused by lack of tension there; also improves the shape and
tension of perioral muscles; implants do no offer this feature-horse-shoe enhancement, covering the chin and also the jaw sides of it-no future displacements or neuritis of mental nerves-practically zero infections and 100% healing of bones-no
need for complex plates and screws that may need future removal; just
steel wires synthesis may suffice, they stay buried into bone callusThe cons are:-expensive, but cheap if you consider the lifetime pros-technically
demanding, few surgeons are experienced or comfortable (though I
personally perform 100% of the chin augmentations by this osseous
method, always after offering the patients both options)-scary for the patient (though not so much if you explain well the stuff around it)You'll
 find in this website dozens of negative experiences with chin implants 
in the short and mid term, do read my profile's Q&A and you'll find 
them too. I am doing sliding genioplaties for 15 years with the highest 
success and no one patient regreted, totall the opposite, I did many 
chin implant removals and one staged sliding genioplasties to replace 
them.

Thomas Fiala, MD, FACS, FRCSC · Answer

Hi.  Based on your side photos, I think you could be a good candidate for a chin implant.  This is a considerably simpler procedure than a genioplasty, which I usually reserve for people who need a dramatic amount of bony advancement.All the best,

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear MattpI think both procedures are good options. You have good vertical height to your chin. That makes you a great candidate for a chin implant. Implant placement is a simpler and more straight forward procedure. Less downtime and less cost. Implants generally do well in this position unless they are too large. You do have risks of infection and extrusion with implant (very low).A sliding genioplasty is a larger and generally more invasive and more expensive procedure. We use it primarily for patients with vertical deficiency. Once it heals, you have a lower risk of infection or extrusion.You would do well seeking consultation from a well trained and experienced surgeon that is board certified by the American board of plastic surgery. Seek more than one consult so you have good information prior to your decision.

David S. Motoki, MD · Answer

In general, a sliding genioplasty is better for a large advancement in chin position, increasing vertical height of the chin and treating an asymmetric chin. A sliding genioplasty does not affect position of the teeth. A sliding genioplasty is a more involved procedure and the chin bone must be held in position by titanium plates and screws. Chin implants are generally better for smaller advancements in chin position. Chin implants are more prone to migrating out of position and can become infected years after placement. They can also erode through the inner tissue of the lower lip. I obtain cephalometric x-rays to help determine the best approach as the chin bone position can be analyzed in a precise manner.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

To achieve the type of facial profile changes you are demonstrating, either a vertical lengthening chin implant or a opening sliding genioplasty could be used. Which is better for you would depend on what type of chin changes you are seeking in the front view. This is the dimensional assessment you are currently missing.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

The photographs demonstrate an overly projecting nose and a weak chin profile. It is true that the nose will look less projecting  by performing only a chin implant. Chin implants are manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes which is best determined at the time of examination and consultation, since the  chin is a three-dimensional structure. Chin implants are composed of Silastic, or inserted through a sub mental approach under local anesthesia as an outpatient surgical procedure. A sliding genioplasty must be performed  under general anesthesia as an inpatient procedure at a hospital by oral surgeon

Michael Elam, MD (retired) · Answer

Dear Mattp, Personally,  I think you would be very happy with a simple chin augmentation procedure. This is a procedure with a very high level of satisfaction. Your profile would benefit from chin augmentation allowing a stronger jawline and bringing better balance to your overall facial features. I see no need for genioplasty when this desired result may be accomplished with a simple augmentation, allowing a short recovery period, and excellent results. Best regards, Michael V. Elam, M.D.

Sheldon S. Kabaker, MD FACS (retired) · Answer

You should be able to get what you want with a simple chin implant which is a reversible procedure.

Gerald Wittenberg, MSc, DMD (retired) · Answer

The image you have apparent has a reduced vertical height of the chin as well as reduced projection. This is common with deeper overbites/vertical overlap of the front teeth. You could consider the sliding genioplasty since it allows both vertical and horizontal changes. Further, you may need some 'fill' in the fold between the lip and chin.

Would I be a candidate for Genioplasty or chin implants? (Photo)

Answers (10)

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