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Mentoplasty, also known as surgery of the chin or chin augmentation, is a plastic surgery procedure able to improve the appearance of a receding or overly prominent chin, creating better harmony of the facial features. During the procedure, a receding chin may be improved with the insertion of an implant or by moving the bone forwards, while too prominent of a chin may be reduced. Other possibilities through chin surgery may include submental liposuction to remove excess fatty tissue from the chin or neckline, and surgery of the jaw to improve the form and function of the lower face when dental malocclusions or birth defects in the jaw structure are present. Mentoplasty is often performed along with other procedures, such as rhinoplasty.
What is the implant made of for mentoplasty?
When a receding chin needs to be built up, a facial implant may be used. Facial implants can be made of a variety of materials including Gore-Tex, Merselene mesh, solid silicone, and other materials.
Who is the best candidate for mentoplasty?
Good candidates for mentoplasty include physically healthy men and women are looking to improve the appearance of the chin or jaw area. As with any type of plastic surgery, patients must also have realistic expectations.
What happens during a consultation for mentoplasty?
During a consultation for mentoplasty, the surgeon will examine the chin and jaw and take a thorough medical history. He or she will discuss your goals and the options available to you through surgery. The surgeon will explain the procedure, the indicated technique, the anesthesia, the surgical facility, the risks and the costs.
Where is mentoplasty performed?
Mentoplasty may be performed in a surgeon's office-based facility, or a hospital or an outpatient surgery center.
What type of anesthesia is used for mentoplasty?
Mentoplasty is often performed with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia is also an option.
How is the actual mentoplasty procedure performed?
To build up a receding chin with the use of an implant, an incision is typically made in the natural crease line just beneath the chin or inside of the mouth where the lower lip and gum meet. Once the incision is made, the tissue will be gently stretched in order to create a pocket into which the implant is then inserted. The incision is then closed with very fine sutures. To reduce an overly prominent chin, an incision is made either under the chin or inside of the mouth and the bone is then sculpted to the desired size and shape.
How long does the actual mentoplasty procedure last?
The surgical time for mentoplasty will depend upon the extent of the work. Generally speaking, mentoplasty can take anywhere from under an hour to about three hours to complete.
Where are the incisions made for mentoplasty?
The incision for mentoplasty is typically made just under the chin within a natural crease or inside of the mouth where the lower lip and gum meet.
Are there scars after mentoplasty?
When the incision for mentoplasty is made inside of the mouth, there is no visible scarring. Incisions made just under the chin will result in a small scar though it tends to be well-concealed and will further fade with time.
Is there much pain with mentoplasty?
After mentoplasty, patients typically experience some tenderness which can be controlled with prescription pain medication.
What is the recovery like after mentoplasty?
It's common for patients to experience some tenderness after mentoplasty which can be controlled with prescription pain medication. Patients may also experience a stretched, tight sensation which typically subsides within a week. Immediately after surgery, chewing may be limited and following a liquid and soft food diet may be necessary during the first few days. Swelling and bruising is also likely to occur, with the majority of swelling fading within six weeks. Dressings are typically removed within two to three days after surgery.
How soon will I be able to return to work after undergoing mentoplasty?
Patients are typically able to return to work and other normal activities within about ten days after surgery.
When can I exercise after undergoing mentoplasty?
Patients will need to avoid strenuous activities for the first few weeks after surgery. In addition, activities which can bump or jar the face should be avoided for about six weeks.
When are the stitches removed after the mentoplasty procedure?
The stitches are usually removed or dissolve on their own within about five to seven days after mentoplasty.
What are the risks or complications associated with mentoplasty?
The potential complications associated with mentoplasty may include adverse anesthesia reactions, capsular contracture, implant shifting, infection, unnatural shape, and the need for additional surgery.
Does insurance cover the cost of mentoplasty? Mentoplasty procedures performed for purely cosmetic reasons are typically not covered by insurance, some degree of coverage may be available for procedures performed to correct or improve genetic deformities or traumatic injuries.


Dr. Bustillo on WPLG Channel
Dr. Bustillo on Univision Primer Impacto for Medical Roll-CIT
Baptist Hospital patients given chance to smile

