Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)
Chin surgery ( Genioplasty) is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone.
Chin surgery is performed on the lower jaw line and chin area to improve proportions of the face and to help with one’s confidence and self-esteem. These types of interventions improve the harmony of facial features and improve the chin/jaw/cheek/forehead balance.
Sometimes bone from the jaw itself can be moved forward in an operation called a mentoplasty or genioplasty. Alternatively, shaped silicone implants can be used to give more projection to the chin. Conversely, bone can be removed to decrease an overly projecting chin. Furthermore, modifications to the upper and/or lower jaw can be advised for improved chewing dynamics and occlusion—or how the teeth fit together. These operations can range from simple to very complex.
Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery or procedures to a patient having a rhinoplasty in order to achieve better facial proportions, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose.
When to Consider Chin surgery
– If you seek to corrects receding chins, chin misalignment or chin excess.
– If you are concerned with the position, shape or contour of your chin, chin surgery may be a good option for you to consider.
Genioplasty is a commonly performed plastic surgery procedure.
Are you a good candidate for chin surgery ?
Genioplasty is best for patients who are otherwise in good health, without active diseases or serious, pre-existing medical conditions.
Genioplasty can be effective for patients with a small or receding chin. A chin that seems too small in proportion to other facial features can make the nose appear overly long.
Plastic surgeons frequently use chin implants to balance the features of a younger patient or may use genioplasty in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure in a more mature patient.
How is a Chin surgery procedure performed?
Reshaping the chin can be accomplished either by using chin implants or by repositioning the bone supporting the chin.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision inside the lower lip or under the chin. The surgeon then repositions the chin bone or places an implant through this incision.
Chin surgery (genioplasty)
Chin surgery
A genioplasty can correct a small chin (deficient chin). A small chin often accompanies a severely receded lower jaw.
Typically, surgeons can alter the jaw and restructure the chin during the same surgery. The surgeon cuts a piece of the chin bone on the front of the jaw, moves it forward, and secures it in a new position with plates and screws.
How do I prepare for a Chin surgery procedure?
– Stop smoking before undergoing surgery to promote better healing
– Avoid taking aspirin, certain anti-inflammatory drugs, and some herbal medications can cause increased bleeding
– Regardless of the type of surgery to be performed, hydration is very important before and after surgery for safe recovery.
– Possibly have blood and urine tests, and a pregnancy test for women, to prepare for anesthesia
Aftercare and Recovery
After surgery, your doctor will provide you with instructions. These usually include:
– What you can eat
– Oral hygiene
– Avoiding tobacco
– Avoiding strenuous activity
– Medications to control pain
– When to return to work or school, which is usually in one to three weeks
Initial jaw healing typically takes about six weeks after surgery, but complete healing can take up to 12 weeks.
After initial jaw healing — at about six weeks — your doctor finishes aligning your teeth with braces. The entire orthodontic process, including surgery and braces, may take several years. Once the braces are removed, retainers to hold tooth position may be used.
How Long Will the Results Last?
Chin surgery results are permanent.
Limitations and Risks
– Adverse reaction to anesthesia
– Hematoma or seroma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal)
– Infection and bleeding
– Changes in sensation
– Scarring
– Allergic reactions
– Damage to underlying structures
– Unsatisfactory results that may necessitate additional procedures
– Visible implant due to incorrect pocket dissection or incorrect implant placement
– Nerve and/or muscle damage
– Slippage
– Asymmetry