Mentoplasty can increase or reduce the size of the chin. The best candidate for chin surgery is the individual with a receding or protruding chin and a normal dental bite. For those whose bite needs correction, jaw surgery, in conjunction with mentoplasty may be necessary.
There are two basic procedures used in mentoplasty: one involves moving the chin bone forward or backward and the other, the use of an artificial chin prosthesis to add size to a receding chin. To move the bone forward or backward, the surgeon cuts through the chin bone. The lower portion of the bone is then moved forward or backward and wired or fixed to keep it securely in position.
A chin prosthesis can also be used to create a more prominent jaw. Using this technique, a prosthesis, similar in consistency to the natural chin and sized to fit the patient, is placed in front of the bone to increase the chin's prominence
