Chin Surgery (Mentoplasty)

In a Mentoplasty procedure, the doctor makes an incision in one of two possible locations: either under the lower lip inside the mouth or under the chin in an inconspicuous location. He then uses an electrical instrument, a bone burr or drill, to reduce and reshape the bone to create a more natural appearance.

In an orthographic surgery, the surgeon makes an incision inside the mouth and repositions the facial bones. This is all done under local anesthetic. After the bones are repositioned or reshaped, the doctor stitches the incision closed and applies tape to the chin area. This dressing will remain in place for two to three days. Patients normally experience a lot of soreness and tenderness, which can be controlled with prescribed medications. Chewing will be limited immediately after the procedure, and patients will need to be on a liquid and soft food diet. After the surgery, significant swelling or discoloration in the treated area is normal, and ideally subsides over several weeks. The stitches are removed within seven days of the procedure, if the chin is healing appropriately.

• To correct malformations of the chin resulting from developmental abnormalities of the bones in the jaw. Sometimes the jawbones continue to grow on one side of the face but not the other, leading to facial asymmetry. In other instances a part of the jawbone is missing; this condition is known as congenital agenesis of the jaw.
• To reshape a chin that is out of proportion to other facial features.
• As part of gender reassignment surgery. The size and shape of the chin and lower jawline are somewhat different in men and women. Some people choose to have mentoplasty as part of their gender transition.
• As part of craniofacial reconstruction following trauma or cancer surgery.
• As part of orthognathic surgery. Orthognathic surgery involves repositioning the facial bones in order to correct deformities that affect the patient's ability to speak or chew normally.