Sliding Genioplasty

Q: Dr. Eppley, I had a sliding genioplasty and jaw augmentation using hydroxyapatite several years ago. The jaw is asymmetric and bumpy, and the chin was moved up instead of just forward. I wanted to have the HA paste along the jaw re-contoured if possible, and the genioplasty revised to give me some more vertical height and more projection too if possible. I also have loose skin on my neck from the massive amount of swelling that I had after the procedure. If you could give me a breakdown of the procedures id be so grateful. (Jaw HA paste contouring/ revision Sliding genio / neck lift/tightening) thanks!

A: The angle of the bone cut on the sliding genioplasty obviously created a vertical shortening effect as the bone was brought forward. Moving the chin back down and out further can be done by a repeat of the sliding genioplasty. The HA granules appear to have been used to try and create a posterior jaw angle augmentation effect. HA onlay application to the bone very often creates an irregular surface contour as it heals and bone grows into it. The HA granules can not be removed per se but they can be contoured (burred) down to create a smoother contour. As for the neck, it is impossible for me to say what may be beneficial since I don’t know what your neck looks like. Real neck tightening comes only from a lower neck/jowl tuck-up. I would assume you are young so this procedure seems a bit aggressive for your age but the problem may warrant it.

Dr. Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana