Mentoplasty with an Implant Performed Through a Submental Approach

In facial aesthetics, the chin tip has a very important role in the perception of the nose, lips, and neck. If the chin tip is recessed, the nose may look larger, the neck may look thicker, or the face may appear rounder. In this case, a simple but effective solution is mentoplasty with an implant performed through a submental approach.

What Is Mentoplasty Surgery with an Implant?

Mentoplasty with an implant is generally performed for patients whose chin tip is recessed and whose chin contour is not defined. The surgeon enters through a concealed incision of about 2 cm under the chin and places a chin implant made of silicone or Medpor (porous polyethylene), selected to suit the patient’s anatomy.

Compared to intraoral methods, the submental approach is preferred especially to reduce the risk of infection and to enable more controlled placement. 

Who Is Suitable for Mentoplasty with an Implant?

If you have one of the following conditions, this method may be suitable:

• If your chin tip is recessed
• If the lower part of your face looks weak or short
• If your nose is prominent in your profile
• If your jawline is not defined
• If a lack of balance has occurred after rhinoplasty

Pre-Operative Process for Mentoplasty with an Implant

1. Facial Proportion Analysis: The relationship between the chin, neck, and nose is evaluated with profile and front facial photos.
2. Imaging: If necessary, an X-ray or tomography is requested to see the structure of the chin bone.
3. Implant Selection: The implant type and size are determined according to the patient’s chin structure and aesthetic goals.
4. Preparation: Blood thinners are discontinued, smoking is stopped. General health status is evaluated.

How Is Mentoplasty Surgery with an Implant Performed?

• Duration: Approximately 30–45 minutes
• Anesthesia: Usually general anesthesia or sedation-assisted local anesthesia
• Method:
  • A pocket for the implant is prepared through a small incision under the chin.
  • The implant is carefully placed and positioned symmetrically.
  • The incision is closed with sutures, leaving a minimal external scar.

Note: The implant is seated on the bone and can be fixed with sutures or screws (depending on the type of implant). This reduces the risk of shifting.

Post-Operative Recovery Process for Mentoplasty with an Implant

First Day:

• There may be mild swelling and a feeling of tightness.
• Cold application is recommended.
• You will be fed with liquid and soft foods.

1–3 Days:

• A comfortable but careful rest period is required.
• Swelling increases, but bruising is generally minimal.
• There will be a small bandage under the chin.

Week 1:

• Most of the swelling goes down.
• Stitches are removed (if a non-dissolving type was used).
• Returning to daily life begins.

Weeks 2–3:

• The chin contour gradually becomes more defined.
• Sports and sleeping face down should be avoided.

1–3 Months:

• The final result begins to become clear.
• The tissues around the implant fully adapt.
• Since the scar is hidden under the chin, it is not noticeable from the outside.

What Are the Advantages of Mentoplasty with an Implant?

• More controlled and symmetrical placement: The surgeon works under direct vision.
• No intraoral hygiene problems.
• Lower risk of infection.
• Since the scar is under the chin and in a natural line, it becomes less noticeable over time.
• Fast and safe recovery process.

Conclusion

Mentoplasty with an implant performed through a submental approach is an aesthetic intervention that heals in a short time, has minimal scarring, and provides very natural results by balancing facial proportions. It positively transforms the facial profile, especially in patients whose chin tip is not prominent.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mentoplasty with an Implant Performed Through a Submental Approach

1) Is the implant a foreign material, will my body accept it?
Silicone and Medpor implants are medically biocompatible materials. They can remain compatible with the body for years.

2) Can the implant shift?
With proper fixation, this risk is very low. The surgeon’s technical approach is very important here.

3) Will there be a scar under the chin?
Yes, but the scar is small and, since it is hidden in the natural crease under the chin, it fades over time and does not draw attention.

4) Can the implant be removed?
Yes. Rarely, if necessary, the implant can be removed or replaced.

5) Will it look natural?
Yes. With the right size and placement, the chin looks like a natural extension. It does not look “surgical.”