Genioplasty
Pronunciation: jee-nee-oh-PLAS-tee
A surgical procedure that repositions or reshapes the bony chin (symphysis) to correct chin deficiency, excess, or asymmetry as part of dentofacial orthopedic treatment.
Full Definition
Genioplasty (also called mentoplasty or osseous genioplasty) involves an osteotomy of the chin segment of the mandible, which is then moved anteriorly, posteriorly, superiorly, or inferiorly, and stabilised with titanium plates and screws. It is frequently performed in conjunction with orthognathic surgery to optimize facial harmony and soft-tissue drape. Unlike an alloplastic (implant) chin augmentation, a genioplasty repositions the patient's own bone. Editors should note that 'genioplasty' and 'mentoplasty' are interchangeable but that 'genioplasty' is preferred in oral and maxillofacial surgical literature; both terms should be hyphenated only in compound modifiers (e.g., post-genioplasty).
Usage
Usage note: Preferred term in surgical literature is 'genioplasty' rather than 'mentoplasty'. When used as a modifier, hyphenate: 'post-genioplasty changes'. Do not confuse with soft-tissue chin augmentation using implants.
In Context
- "A sliding genioplasty was performed to advance the chin 5 mm, complementing the Le Fort I maxillary impaction." — Orthognathic surgery operative report
- "The treatment plan specified a bimaxillary procedure with genioplasty for complete facial balance." — Pre-surgical orthodontic consultation note