Comparisons of Outcomes of Chin Implantation Using the Transoral Versus Submental Technique: A Systematic Review

Background: Chin implantation is a commonly performed facial plastic surgery procedure. There are 2 approaches to this procedure: submental and transoral. There is no consensus as to which is the best and safest approach. Objective: The objective of this review is to ascertain the risks and benefits of using an intraoral versus submental approach for chin implantation. Methods: A systematic review of all articles published in MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar was performed from 1966 to 2020. Results: A total of 1410 articles were reviewed and 38 were chosen for the review based on predetermined selection criteria. Total complication rates in the transoral group ranged from 0% to 14.7%, whereas total complication rates in the submental group ranged from 0% to 15%. No clear difference in the rates of any specific complication was found between the 2 groups. Conclusion: There is no demonstrated difference in complication rates between the 2 approaches to chin implantation. Individual patient assessment and surgeon preference remain the most important determinants of surgical approach.