Chin advancement as an aid in correction of deformities of the mental and submental regions.

Six patients are presented demonstrating various uses of chin advancement (horizontal osteotomy of the mandibular symphysis and sliding advancement) for correction of mental and submental deformities. With preservation of muscular attachment to the posterior border of the advanced mandibular fragment, the author feels that there is an anterior pull on the cervical musculature that may complement the posterior pull of platysmal plication. The technique of chin advancement is described in detail and offers more versatility than the use of alloplastic chin implants. The author advocates the use of this direct osseous approach for purely aesthetic reasons as well as in the correction of maxillofacial and craniofacial malformations.