For Vertical Chin Lengthening Should It Be Done With An Implant Or A Bony Genioplasty?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hello, I am wondering which surgery would be helpful for me. I am 99% sure I would be a good candidate for sliding genioplasty, specifically targeting the vertical length, as I feel I suffer from slight short face syndrome, as well as having a deep labiomental fold and a long philtrum. That is why I am not considering implants, as I feel I have good side chin projection; it’s just the vertical length that I would like to increase. I have included pictures of my overbite as well. On a side note I am completely open to what you think would help as well

A:Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. You’re absolutely correct and that you have a vertically deficient chin. You have adequate horizontal projection but between your overbite, flat mandibular plane angle and shorter lower third of the face vertical lengthening is your chin need. You’re also correct in that in a vertical opening bony genioplasty is the correct solution. The only debate to be had about it is how much vertical lengthening is needed, and it is probably in the 6 to 8 mm range, although this is yet to be more fully investigated buy imaging.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Plastic Surgeon