Mentoplasty

MENTOPLASTY

(Surgery of the Chin)

 

 

The main goal of this surgery is to provide a well defined chin to help give balance to the face creating a major part of one’s profile. When people look in the mirror, most focus on the size and shape of their noses, their ears, sagging jowls, or fine wrinkling of the skin. But even though few examine their chins with the same discerning eye, having a “weak chin” is certainly not an asset.

 

If you’re considering mentoplasty, this information will help provide a basic understanding of what a mentoplasty can and cannot achieve. Because the combination of facial features affects each individual patient differently no amount of written information can replace a personal consultation with Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team.

 

The following information is strictly the opinion of Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and pertains to mentoplasty and other cosmetic procedures of the face as performed by him.

 

 

What is a mentoplasty?

 

Mentoplasty is a procedure to increase the chin mainly in profile, but other areas of the mandible can be changed with small implants in the same fashion. In some cases mentoplasty is used to reduce a too prominent chin.

 

Surgeons are often the first to suggest that changes in chin size or shape may enhance a profile as much as rhinoplasty. It is common for the facial plastic surgeon to recommend chin surgery in addition to nose surgery when the surgeon sees that chin augmentation is necessary to achieve facial balance and harmony. Fortunately, this is a relatively straightforward procedure that can make a major difference.

 

A pleasing, balanced profile can be achieved by inserting an implant or moving the bone forward to build up a receding chin, or by reducing a jutting or too prominent chin. The result can be greater facial harmony and an increase in self-confidence.

 

Dr. Gomez-Mendoza frequently performs mentoplasty with rhinoplasty (because a small chin can make the nose appear larger) and even in combination with limited liposculpture; another possibility for improvement in which excess fatty tissue in the submental area is removed to redefine the chin or neckline. If several flaws need correction, more than one procedure may be necessary for the best overall result.

 

 

Where will your mentoplasty be performed?

 

Although Dr. Gomez-Mendoza has been granted staff privileges at most of the local hospitals and outpatient surgery centers, he performs most mentoplasty procedures at the modern Puerta de Hierro Medical Center. Whether you choose to have your procedure done in the peaceful seclusion of our state-of-the-art Medical Center or an area hospital.

 

 

What type of anesthesia is used?

 

Dr. Gomez-Mendoza performs most mentoplasties, under sedation some patients refer to this as "twilight" type anesthesia (gentle, short-acting medication is administered by a board certified anesthesiologist to insure comfort and security for our patients) and local anesthesia. Patients are under monitored anesthesia care since they arrive to the operating room till they leave the recovery area; ensuring that you receive the safest care possible. The expert care you deserve.

 

Our patients recover more quickly and with less discomfort than when general anesthesia is used. In some cases even the local anesthesia itself may serve as the sole means of anesthesia providing sufficient comfort during the procedure in a cooperative patient.

 

 

About the surgery...

 

To augment the chin, the surgeon begins by making an incision either in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside the mouth, where the gum and lower lip meet. By gently stretching this tissue, the surgeon creates a space where an implant can be inserted. This implant, made of synthetic material that feels much like natural tissue normally found in the chin, is available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. This allows custom fitting of the implant to the configurations of the patient’s face. After implantation, we will close the incision with fine absorbable sutures placed in an intradermal running fashion so you will not see them and they do not need to be removed). This technique obviates the need for external skin sutures and circumvents the possibility of suture marks.

 

When the incision is inside the mouth, no scarring is visible. If the incision is under the chin, the scar is usually imperceptible.

 

In chin reduction surgery, incisions are made either in the mouth or under the chin. The surgeon sculpts the bone to a more pleasing size. Immediately after surgery, the surgeon usually applies a dressing that will remain in place for two to three days. You will experience some tenderness, post-operative discomfort can be limited immediately after chin surgery, and a liquid and soft food diet may be required for a few days after surgery. Most patients feel a stretched, tight sensation, but this usually subsides in a week. Normal activity can be resumed after approximately seven days.

 

 

How do I prepare for my mentoplasty?

 

Facial surgery must be individualized for each patient; Dr. Gomez-Mendoza will evaluate your face, including your skin, and with your assistance, make recommendations as to the specific procedures that will most likely help you achieve your aesthetic goals. A detailed history of medical conditions that could affect your surgery will be obtained including use of medications, vitamins, etc.

 

You will be given detailed written instructions on how to prepare for your surgery including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and avoidance of certain vitamins and medications. If you smoke it’s especially important to stop (and also to avoid second-hand smoke) for at least two weeks prior to surgery because of the deleterious effect of smoking upon the healing process. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. In addition, we'll also be available to answer any questions you might have or any concerns that arise. Please don't hesitate to call us.

 

Are there any risks?

 

When mentoplasty is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon certified by the Board of Plastic Surgery, complications are infrequent and usually minor.

 

While Dr. Gomez-Mendoza and his team make every effort to minimize risk, individuals vary greatly in their anatomy, their healing ability as well as in their reactions to surgery and anesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following the advice of your surgeon concerning your pre- and post-operative care.

 

To contact plastic surgeon Dr. Jesús Gómez Mendoza about any cosmetic surgery procedures, please fill out our contact form or call us at +52 (33) 3848-5477