Beauty Doc Blog

Mentoplasty refers to plastic surgery procedures for the chin and  comes from the Latin word mentum, which means chin, and the Greek verb plassein, which means “to form” or “to shape.” Mentoplasty is also known as genioplasty or chinplasty and may be performed for several reasons.  These are to correct malformations of the child that result from developmental abnormalities of the jaw bones.  There are times when jawbones continue to grow on one side of the face but not grow on the other and this can lead to facial asymmetry.  At other times a part of the jawbone will be missing. This condition is known as congenital agenesis of the jaw.

Mentoplasty Is To Reshape An Out of Proportion Chin

Mentoplasty is to reshape an out of proportion chin, or can be used in gender reassignment surgery.  The chin and lower jaw line shape and size are different n men and women and some people have mentoplasty as part of gender transition procedures.  It is also used as part of craniofacial reconstruction after cancer surgery or trauma; and as part of orthognathic surgery which is repositioning the facial bones to correct deformities affecting the patent’s ability to speak or to chew normally.

A Well Defined Chin Gives Balance

In our society it is accepted that a well defined chin helps to give balance to the face and creates a major part of a person’s profile.  When people look at themselves in the mirror most focus on the size and the shape of their noses, their ears, if their jowls sag, or if they have fine wrinkling on the skin.  Few, however, examine their chins with the same care.

Those surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty or nose surgery often are the first to suggest chin size or shape changes to enhance a profile.  If a facial plastic surgeon discovers that chin augmentation will help to achieve facial harmony and balance they will recommend mentoplasty. It is, fortunately, a relatively straightforward procedure that can make a major positive difference and has many adherents who have recommended the procedure to others.

Wondering How Chin Surgery Can Improve Your Appearance?

If wondering how chin surgery can affect one’s appearance they should be knowledgeable of the procedure and what to expect. A plastic surgeon can explain the procedure and answer questions thoroughly. Trust, good rapport between patient and physician, and realistic expectations are also very important.