The Mentalis Muscle

TLDR

Soft‑tissue chin ptosis can occur after surgery, and the mentalis muscles, which control central lip motion and chin position, may require resuspension. The procedure uses an intraoral approach with drill holes in the alveolar bone to pass non‑absorbable sutures through the lower mentalis muscles, which are then tightened to reattach the chin, with additional steps to address vestibular and submental scarring. The technique can correct chin and lip position in selected patients.

Abstract

The soft-tissue chin may become ptotic following surgery in this area. The mentalis muscles which are responsible for proper central lip motion and chin point position may be affected. The mentalis muscle origin may require resuspension at a proper level. This reattachment may be performed by means of an intraoral approach. Non-absorbable sutures are used to hold the soft-tissue chin upwards. The exact method involves placing drill holes through the alveolar bone, into which sutures are passed. These sutures are then placed through the lower mentalis muscles and tightened. Chin and lip position may be corrected in certain cases. Ancillary procedures are required to correct vestibular scarring and submental scars.