Retrusive chin reconstruction after burn injuries using submental and labiomental fat flaps: an innovative method

A simple method has been introduced for augmentation and restoration of normal chin protrusion as an important element of facial contour in patients suffering from severe skin retraction and scar resulting from head and neck area burns.

For releasing skin retraction and compression of the mental area subcutaneous fat tissues, under general anesthesia, 2 incisions were made in the submental and labiomental areas, each about 3 to 5 cm. After dissection of the superior portions of labiomental and inferior pedicle of submental fat pads, turning over and attaching them together, the skin over the area was reconstructed as needed.

Thirty-four patients with pseudomicrogenia were involved. In 32 patients, the procedure was performed successfully and the results were evaluated as excellent in 15 cases and good in 17 cases. However, in 2 patients, suboptimal results were obtained, which were corrected using genioplasty in one of them. The other one did not consent for any further surgeries. Split-thickness skin grafting was performed in 3 cases. Tissue expansion and full-thickness skin grafting were used in 3 others for resurfacing the area.

Taken together, the current technique might be helpful in restoring normal chin protrusion and can be used besides available methods for resurfacing and reconstruction of the defective skin for enhancing the facial appearance.