What is a composite jaw augmentation?
A composite jaw augmentation is an advanced facial skeletal procedure that combines a sliding genioplasty (chin bone repositioning) with a custom-designed jawline implant. Together, these techniques improve chin projection, jawline length, width, and overall lower facial definition in a single, coordinated surgical plan.
What is a sliding genioplasty?
A sliding genioplasty is a procedure in which the chin bone (mandibular symphysis) is surgically cut and repositioned. The bone can be advanced, lowered, or reshaped to improve chin projection, vertical height, symmetry, and balance.
Why use a sliding genioplasty instead of a chin implant alone?
A sliding genioplasty provides a permanent skeletal correction using your own bone. It maintains natural bone continuity and avoids potential issues associated with chin implants, such as malposition, unnatural size requirements, or long-term dissatisfaction.
What is a custom jawline implant?
A custom jawline implant is a patient-specific implant (PSI) designed from a high-resolution 3D CT scan. The implant is precisely shaped to fit your anatomy and extends along the mandibular body and angles to enhance jawline width, length, and angularity.
What materials are used for custom jawline implants?
Custom jawline implants can be made from silicone, Medpor, or PEEK, depending on patient needs and surgical goals. Each material is selected for safety, durability, and predictable long-term results.
Why combine a sliding genioplasty with a custom jawline implant?
Each technique addresses different parts of the lower face.
- The sliding genioplasty improves the central chin structure.
- The custom jawline implant enhances the lateral and posterior jawline.
Together, they create a continuous, natural, and well-defined jawline that cannot be achieved by either procedure alone.
Who is a good candidate for composite jaw augmentation?
This procedure is especially effective for patients with:
- A weak or retrusive chin
- A narrow or underdeveloped jawline
- A retrusive mandible
- Facial asymmetry requiring precise correction
- Prior dissatisfaction with chin implants
Does this procedure work for both men and women?
Yes. Composite jaw augmentation can be tailored to achieve:
- Stronger, more angular jawlines for male patients
- Refined, balanced contouring for female patients
The design is customized based on facial proportions and aesthetic goals.
How is the surgery planned?
Surgical planning includes:
- High-resolution CT scanning
- Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP)
- Custom implant design that integrates seamlessly with the repositioned chin bone
- Rigid fixation using titanium plates and screws
This approach allows for exceptional accuracy and predictability.
What is recovery like?
- Swelling typically peaks at 5–7 days and gradually improves over several weeks
- A soft diet is required initially
- Temporary lower lip numbness may occur
- Final jawline definition becomes visible at approximately 3–4 months
Are the results permanent?
Yes. The bone repositioning is permanent, and the custom jawline implant is designed for long-term stability and durability.
What is the main advantage of composite jaw augmentation?
The primary advantage is achieving maximal, natural, and anatomically precise jawline enhancement. This combined approach surpasses what either a chin implant or genioplasty alone can accomplish.
What is the key takeaway?
A composite sliding genioplasty with a custom jawline implant is the most comprehensive solution for patients seeking a powerful yet natural transformation of the lower face.
Dr. Barry Eppley
World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon