How is mentoplasty used as part of orthognathic surgery?

Mentoplasty, also known as chin surgery, can be used as part of orthognathic surgery to correct various jaw deformities and imbalances. Here are some ways mentoplasty is utilized in orthognathic procedures:

1. Genioplasty:

- Genioplasty is a surgical procedure that involves reshaping the chin by moving or altering the position of the chin bone (the symphysis).

- In cases of mandibular deficiency (a small or recessed chin), a sliding genioplasty can be performed. The chin bone is surgically advanced forward to create a more balanced and projected facial profile.

- Alternatively, in cases of excessive chin projection (prognathism), a setback genioplasty may be performed to reposition the chin bone backward, creating a more harmonious facial appearance.

2. Vertical Correction:

- Orthognathic surgeries often involve correcting the vertical dimension of the face, particularly in cases of open bites or excessive overbites.

- Mentoplasty can be used to complement these corrections. For instance, if the lower jaw is being moved upward, the chin may also require augmentation or reshaping to maintain facial harmony.

3. Contouring and Aesthetics:

- Mentoplasty can enhance the aesthetic outcomes of orthognathic surgery by refining facial contours.

- It enables surgeons to address any asymmetry or irregularities in the chin and jawline that might persist after correcting the underlying skeletal discrepancies.

4. Soft Tissue Management:

- In some orthognathic procedures, such as double jaw surgery (bimaxillary surgeries), the soft tissues of the face may need to be adjusted to accommodate the skeletal changes.

- Mentoplasty can help ensure that the soft tissues drape smoothly over the underlying structures, avoiding any tissue bunching or deformities in the chin area.

5. Functional Improvements:

- In certain cases, mentoplasty can also contribute to functional improvements during orthognathic surgery.

- By correctly positioning the chin and improving jaw alignment, it can aid in optimizing chewing, speaking, and breathing functions, which are often affected by jaw deformities.

6. Psychological Benefits:

- Many individuals undergoing orthognathic surgery also experience psychological benefits from the improvement in their facial appearance.

- Mentoplasty can enhance facial aesthetics and balance, positively impacting their self-esteem and confidence.

Overall, mentoplasty plays an important role in orthognathic surgery by providing additional refinement and balance to the facial profile. It ensures that the final results align with the patient's aesthetic goals and functional requirements.