DESCRIPTION
Mentoplasty, also referred to as genioplasty, is a surgical procedure to change the contour of the chin to create a more pleasing facial profile. It may be performed to either increase the size and/or shape of the chin as augmentation or to lessen the prominence and/or size of the chin as reduction.
Chin augmentation typically involves the addition of a synthetic implant inserted under the skin to project and reshape the profile of the chin. Reduction of chin height or rounding of the chin requires sculpting of the mandible to a less prominent, more pleasing size by osteotomy.
POLICY
Mentoplasty (chin augmentation, genioplasty) is considered cosmetic.
IMPORTANT REMINDERS
Any specific products referenced in this policy are just examples and are intended for illustrative purposes only. It is not intended to be a recommendation of one product over another and is not intended to represent a complete listing of all products available. These examples are contained in the parenthetical e.g., statement.
We develop Medical Policies to provide guidance to Members and Providers. This Medical Policy relates only to the services or supplies described in it. The existence of a Medical Policy is not an authorization, certification, explanation of benefits, or a contract for the service (or supply) that is referenced in the Medical Policy. For a determination of the benefits that a Member is entitled to receive under his or her health plan, the Member's health plan must be reviewed. If there is a conflict between the Medical Policy and a health plan or government program (e.g., TennCare), the express terms of the health plan or government program will govern.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Mentoplasty is not performed for the purpose of restoring normal form or function; therefore it is not considered a reconstructive procedure.
SOURCES
American Academy of Facial and Reconstructive Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. (2019). Chin surgery: understanding mentoplasty. Retrieved March 31, 2020 from https://www.aafprs.org/patient/procedures/mentoplasty.html.
CMS.gov: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Palmetto GBA. (2021, July). Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. (LCD ID L33428). Retrieved March 19, 2024 from https://www.cms.gov.
ORIGINAL EFFECTIVE DATE: 1/11/1983
MOST RECENT REVIEW DATE: 4/11/2024
ID_BT
Policies included in the Medical Policy Manual are not intended to certify coverage availability. They are medical determinations about a particular technology, service, drug, etc. While a policy or technology may be medically necessary, it could be excluded in a member's benefit plan. Please check with the appropriate claims department to determine if the service in question is a covered service under a particular benefit plan. Use of the Medical Policy Manual is not intended to replace independent medical judgment for treatment of individuals. The content on this Web site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice in any way. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider if you have questions regarding a medical condition or treatment.
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