Sliding Genioplasty

Q: Dr. Eppley,I underwent an 8mm sliding genioplasty three years ago. Overall I consider it a big improvement for my face, but now instead of lacking a chin, I have a step-off deformity on the right jawline. It is quite visible (you have to look straight to it thought). I could live with it but I’d also be much free from concern if I could get rid of it. Is there any way to fix and unify my jawline, preferably without major surgery? Thank you very much. Kind regards.

A: Step-offs along the jawline after a sliding genioplasty are common particularly the greater the horizontal movement and the more steep the osteotomy cut is. The simplest method to treat these jawline irregularities after a sliding geniplasty is to fill in the defect from an intraoral approach. There are a variety of material options but hydroxyapatite granules or the layering of porous mesh over it is the most common way I do it. It is a surgery but I would not consider it major surgery compared to a sliding genioplasty.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana