Chin Wing Osteotomy

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am interested in custom jaw implants. I had a chin wing osteotomy done three months ago and I am happy so far with the result, but not with the width of my jaw and the asymmetry. Is it possible to get this procedure done after a chin wing osteotomy? When could I get the surgery this year? How much will it cost? How long do I have to stay?

A: It is possible to do a custom jaw implant after a chin wing osteotomy. I have done numerous such cases. The chin wing osteotomy provides no facial width, no posterior jaw angle vertical lengthening and often ends up asymmetric/irregular. I would wait until six months after the chin wing procedure to be certain you known exactly the dimensional jaw changes you want to achieve. A custom jaw implant will require a 3D CT scan for implant design. You have a very good knowledge of the recovery based on your chin wing osteotomy experience. It would be similar to that although the amount of swelling may or may not be less.

The cost of a custom jaw implant will be greater than that of the chin wing due to the design and fabrication of the implant.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana