What Are The Pros and Cons of Intraoral vs Submental Placement of Custom Jawline Implants?

Q: Dr. Eppley, My question is therefore whether submental placement of jaw and chin implants is to be preferred over intraoral in terms of safety and infection risk?  I know Dr. Eppley has done both of these, but what are the pros and cons of going submental vs. intraoral?

A: In custom jawline implant placements, three incisions are needed….one anterior and two posterior. The two posterior incisions are always intraoral and are located way back in the mouth opposite the 2nd/3rd molars. The only ‘debate’ is whether the anterior incision at the chin area is intraoral or submental. To decrease the risk of infection and potential mental nerve injury the submental approach is preferred. In very small custom jawline implants that are used in some females the anterior intraoral approach may be able to be used but with that comes the aforementioned increased risks.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World Renowned Plastic Surgeon