A composite jaw augmentation is an advanced aesthetic facial skeletal procedure that combines controlled chin bone repositioning with a patient-specific jawline implant. This integrated approach optimizes chin projection, jawline length, and mandibular definition through a single, coordinated surgical plan. It is indicated when the chin deficiency is significant enough that it can not be augmented by an implant alone.
- Sliding Genioplasty (Bony Chin Advancement)
Purpose
The mandibular symphysis (chin bone) is surgically cut and repositioned—advanced, lowered, or reshaped—to improve chin projection, vertical height, and overall balance of the lower face. Its dimensions exceed what an implant can achieve either in horizontal projection, usually > 1o to 12mms,in vertical lengthening (> 7mms) or when vertical chin shortening is needed.
Key Benefits
- Permanent bony correction of severe chin retrusion
- Decreases implant load around the jawline
- Avoids the limitations and long-term issues of implant-only chin augmentation
- Improves cervicomental angle and lower facial harmony
- Can vertical chin deficiencies or excesses
2. Custom Jawline Implant (PSI – Patient-Specific Implant)
Purpose
A custom implant, designed from high-resolution 3D CT imaging (silicone, Medpor, or PEEK), is created to extend along the mandibular body and angles, enhancing jawline width, length, and angularity and joining up over the chin for a continuous and smooth jawline appearance.
Key Benefits
- Exact anatomic fit
- Smooth, continuous transitions without step-offs
- Corrects jawline deficiencies that cannot be addressed by bone movement alone
?Why Combine Them? — The “Composite” Approach
A sliding genioplasty improves central chin structure, while a custom jawline implant enhances the lateral and posterior jawline. Together, they allow for a comprehensive redesign of the lower facial skeleton than eiteyhr technique alone can not satisfactorily do.
This combined approach provides:
- Full lower facial skeletal enhancement
- A stronger, more continuous jawline contour
- Enhanced male jawline definition or refined female contouring
- Avoidance of oversized or ill-fitting chin implants
This technique is particularly effective in patients with:
- A severely weak chin and narrow jawline
- A retrusive mandible
- Prior dissatisfaction with chin implants
- Facial asymmetry requiring high-precision correction
Surgical Planning
- High-resolution CT imaging
- Virtual Surgical Planning (VSP)
- Custom implant designed to integrate seamlessly with the advanced chin bone
- Rigid fixation using titanium plates and screws
It is technically challenging in surgery to get the bone and implant to fit together as precisely as shown in the 3D planning model/design.
It is technically challenging in surgery to get the bone and implant to fit together as precisely as shown in the 3D planning model/design.Recovery Overview
- Swelling peaks at 5–7 days and gradually resolves over several weeks
- Soft diet initially
- Temporary lower lip numbness may occur
- Final definition becomes apparent at approximately 3–4 months
Key Takeaway
A composite sliding genioplasty with a custom jawline implant represents the most powerful and anatomically precise option for patients seeking maximal, natural jawline enhancement—achieving results that neither technique can accomplish alone.
Dr. Barry Eppley
World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon