Down through the ages, as depicted in the works of many famous artists, a strong chin has been considered a sign of physical beauty.

On the other hand, a person with a receding chin is sometimes described as having a "weak" chin. Because their faces seem unbalanced to them, people with this condition often find it a source of distress and concern. Chin augmentation, or mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance by altering the facial contours. It is designed to add size to or move forward a receding chin. In some cases, a chin augmentation is done in conjunction with liposuction surgery of other cosmetic facial procedures such as rhinoplasty (surgery of the nose) and phytidectomy (facelift).

The best candidate for chin augmentation is the individual with a receding chin and a normal dental bite. For those with a bite dysfunction, jay surgery, in conjunction with mentoplasty, may be necessary.

BEFORE SURGERY
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to evaluate your general health. Careful examination of your face is also conducted. Dr. Gilmer will describe the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected and possible risks and complications. Photographs may be taken before and after surgery to evaluate the amount of improvement.

Preoperative instructions may include the elimination of certain drugs which contain aspirin in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Antibiotics may be prescribed for a few days prior to surgery to prevent infection. The areas to be worked on are carefully marked.

THE PROCEDURE
The surgery can be done in our office on an outpatient basis. Medication to relax you may be administered prior to surgery.

There are two basic procedures used in mentoplasty: one involves moving the chin bone forward and the other, the use of a plastic chin implant. To move the bone forward, an incision is made inside the mouth. The surgeon, working through the incision, uses special instruments to cut through the chin bone. The lower portion of the bone is then moved forward and wired to keep it in position. Small sutures are used to close the incision, and external bandages are applied to the area.

A second procedure, a chin implant, may also be used to create a more prominent jaw. In this technique, the incision is made either inside the mouth or externally, under the chin. A plastic prosthesis, sized exactly to fit the patient, is placed in a pocket above the chin bone and beneath the muscles. Sutures are used to close the incision and pressure bandages are applied. The procedure may take from two and a half to three hours or more depending on whether other procedures are done at the same time.

FOLLOWING SURGERY
Pain connected with the surgery is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection. The bandages are usually removed within a week. Most patients are up and around the day of surgery; however, strenuous activities must be avoided for some time. Dr. Gilmer will advise you as to when normal activities can be resumed based on the extent of surgery and your personal healing process.

Some temporary swelling and bruising of the face are to be expected. Keeping the head slightly elevated when reclining and applying cold compresses may help reduce swelling. Chewing may be difficult for ten days to two weeks and numbness around the treated area may occur for a period of time. Brushing the teeth is sometimes difficult for several days.

Scars from the incisions fade significantly with time and are, for the most part, inconspicuous because of the location. Complications are rare; however, there are certain inherent risks connected with every surgical procedure which should be thoroughly discussed with the physician. You can minimize complications by carefully following directions given by Dr. Gilmer and his staff.

INSURANCE COVERAGE
Some insurance companies pay part or all of the costs of this surgery if the condition impairs normal jaw function. Each insurance company is different, however, and it is recommended that you check with your own agent to determine if there is coverage.

If you are interested in learning more about mentoplasty, please contact our office and we will be happy to answer your questions.

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