An Innovative Approach to Chin Ptosis Correction with Surgical Net.

Abstract

Objective: Chin ptosis, characterized by the descent of soft tissues below the inferior mandibular border, significantly impacts lower facial aesthetics. Traditional facial rejuvenation procedures often fail to comprehensively address this condition. The surgical net technique offers a novel approach for precise repositioning and stabilization of the chin. This study evaluates the clinical outcomes of this technique in correcting chin ptosis within comprehensive facial rejuvenation procedures.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted on 20 patients who underwent correction of chin ptosis using the surgical net technique from November 2022 to November 2023. Incision placement varied based on anatomy, surgical plan, and neck lift approach. Subcutaneous dissection extended to the inferior mentum border, with subperiosteal dissection beneath the mentalis muscle akin to alloplastic chin augmentation. The chin was repositioned and secured using 5/0 polypropylene surgical net sutures. Outcomes were assessed using patient-reported "Satisfaction with Chin" FACE-Q scores.

Results: The cohort included 20 female patients with an average age of 54.3 years (range: 40-64) and a mean BMI of 28.1 (range: 20.0-34.2). The procedure duration averaged 13.3 min (SD ± 2.1). The average follow-up period was 12.53 months (range: 12-14). No major complications were reported. Satisfaction scores increased from a mean preoperative score of 34 ± 8.5 to 86 ± 10.2 at 1-year follow-up (p < 0.001).

Conclusions: The surgical net technique is a simple, reproducible, and effective method that offers an innovative solution for addressing chin ptosis, combining precision, stability, and adaptability to achieve optimal outcomes. The operating time is minimal, and complications are virtually nonexistent.

Level of evidence iv: This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .