What is genioplasty?
Genioplasty, also known as mentoplasty, is a common procedure to correct the shape or position of the chin.
The surgeon shapes the lower part of the face to move it forward or backward, depending on the defect observed.
This surgical technique is particularly indicated for people with chin anomalies and functional problems, such as breathing or lip strap problems. This chin operation is sometimes combined with rhinoplasty (aesthetic nose surgery), which works on the entire profile to restore a certain harmony. In this case, the operation is called a profiloplasty.
Genioplasty: Practical information
Genioplasty is a surgical technique recommended for people with a receding or protruding chin. Depending on the corrections required, this may be a receding chin, a curved chin or a chin that is too long. This type of operation can be performed on anyone over the age of 16. It is necessary to wait until the facial bones have completed their growth before carrying out surgery.
Chin surgery: objectives and principles
Chin reduction or chin advancement genioplasty aims to restore a harmonious appearance to the face. The final result is designed to be as natural as possible to guarantee the patient's physical and psychological well-being.
This operation is based on two distinct surgical techniques. Depending on the case, either a bone section, also known as an osteotomy, or a chin implant may be used. The technique used for the operation is decided jointly with your surgical expert at La Clinique du Lac.
Chin genioplasty: before the procedure
Before proceeding with a genioplasty, the specialists at La Clinique du Lac take the time to meet each patient and explain the purpose of the procedure and how it will be carried out. They are keen to discuss at length why the patient wishes to undergo such an operation, and to answer any questions he or she may have.
Medical examinations (X-rays, blood tests) are also carried out to enable the experts at La Clinique du Lac to prepare the operation in the best possible way.
Mentoplasty: type of anesthesia and hospitalization conditions
Receding chin surgery is performed under general anesthesia in an operating room. The procedure lasts approximately 1.5 hours, depending on the surgical technique used. A 24-hour hospital stay at La Clinique du Lac is required after the operation.
Genioplasty: the procedure
Chin surgery begins with an incision in the buccal mucosa. This technique avoids visible scarring. The surgeon then removes the bone from the dental root and fractures the bone. This allows the bone to be moved in the desired direction (backwards or forwards). It is then fixed with micro-screws.
If the surgeon and patient have opted for a chin implant, in the case of receding chin surgery, bone fracture is not necessary. A special prosthesis is then placed in the desired position, and secured with several screws. Finally, the incision is sutured with absorbable sutures, which take 2 to 4 weeks to disappear.
