How Much Does A Submentoplasty Add To The Result Of My Chin Implant Replacement?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am planning of chin implant replacement and a submentoplasty procedure with you next month. I have some questions about the chin implant to be sure not will be better after the replacement as well as what changes in the neck that may occur.

A: Thank you for sending your side profile picture to which I can make the following comments:

1) If my memory is correct I have seen an MRI of current chin implant position which shows it hanging off of the end of the chin bone. Thus we know for certain that a new chin implant that is less bulky can be placed in the proper position on the bone which makes for an exclusive horizontal type of chin augmentation effect. Because of the existing chin implant and to ensure that it stays in the higher desired position, this is the role of double screw fixation of the implant.

2) Your neck is very typical for some middle-aged men who have thicker tissues creating a low hanging full neck with an indistinct cervicomental angle. While we know the best result possible comes from a full lower neck-jowl lift, most men are not prepared to go that far. (extent of surgery and ear scars) Thus the submentoplasty procedure has been chosen as it offers the most that can be achieved short of a full lower facelift. The result will not be the same but then the extent of surgery, recovery and risk factors will accordingly be lower. There is no question that the neck part will have the biggest aesthetic benefit but it is important to appreciate what the submentoplasty can and can not do.

3) I have attached an imaging prediction of what I think the likely outcome will be from these two combined procedures.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana