Sliding Genioplasty

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am in need of a sliding genioplasty. I have visited an orthodontist, oral surgeon and plastic surgeon so far. My goal is to improve my profile, solve the mentalis strain and lip incompetence, balance my front face (not a too long or too short chin) and most importantly, not to create more problems. The concern I have now is that how I can improve my profile without making my chin too long. I have a very round face and I will be happy to keep it that way if possible.

A: Thank you for sending your pictures and x-rays in consideration of a sliding genioplasty. Given your young age and your degree of chin deficiency, I think you are a very good candidate for a sliding genioplasty. How much horizontal advancement is yet to be determined but it would be at least 7mmm to 8mm.  Such horizontal advancement should resolve your mentalis strain and lower lip incompetence. To maintain the vertical height of your lower face, the angle of the bone cut should be slightly angled backward and the chin vertically shortened as it is brought forward. Unlike a chin implant only a sliding genioplasty can bring the chin horizontally forward and make it vertically shorter at the same time.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana