Sliding genioplasty for correction of chin abnormalities

Abstract

Background: Correction of chin underprojection has a significant effect on facial symmetry. Alloplastic chin implants and sliding genioplasty represent the accepted methods of chin augmentation. While both procedures may be used for retrognathia or microgenia, the sliding genioplasty may also be used in chin asymmetry, prognathia, and vertical height discrepancies. We report our finding from a 5-year review of our experience with sliding genioplasty.

Objectives: To evaluate the results of sliding genioplasties performed by residents and private practitioners, to illustrate the versatility and ease of this procedure, and to confirm the excellent clinical results obtained with minimal complications.

Design: Retrospective case review.

Setting: University center and private practice.

Patients: Forty-three patients, aged 16 to 52 years (mean age, 21 years), underwent sliding genioplasty alone (8 patients) or with concomitant orthognathic surgery (35 patients).

Main outcome measures: Patient satisfaction, physician satisfaction, chin movement, bone resorption, and other complications.

Results: Mean value of chin advancement was 8 mm in cases of isolated sliding genioplasty and 4 mm when performed with orthognathic surgery. Average setback for prognathic correction (6 patients) was 2 mm. Less than 0.5 mm of bone resorption was encountered. Temporary unilateral mental nerve paresthesia was noted in 1 patient. Thermal injury to the lower lip occurred in 1 patient. Thirty-seven of 43 patients were extremely satisfied with their cosmetic result; 5 patients were very satisfied; and 1 patient was dissatisfied because of the resultant occlusion. Physician satisfaction correlated closely with that of the patients. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 5 years, with an average follow-up of 2.3 years.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate excellent esthetic results with minimal complications. Unlike alloplastic chin implants, sliding genioplasty allows correction of many chin abnormalities, including underprojection, overprojection, chin asymmetries, and/or vertical-height abnormalities. This underused technique is simple and effective and should be included in the options of the facial plastic surgeon.