Genioplasty is surgery on the chin. Both plastic surgeons and maxillofacial surgeons (surgeons who work on the mouth and jaw) can perform this type of surgery. It is usually a cosmetic surgery, meaning people choose to have it done for looks and not because they have a medical condition. If it’s done for cosmetic reasons, it’s almost never covered by insurance. The procedure can be done by moving the chin forward, moving the chin backward, moving the chin side-to-side and vertical changes where the chin is made longer or shorter.
Facial symmetry can be significantly altered with either a chin augmentation or reduction procedure. There are two types or genioplasty that are typically performed, sliding genioplasty and chin implants.
Sliding genioplasty is done from the inside of your mouth so that there are no visible scars on the skin of your face. A surgeon will use a saw to cut the chin bone away from the rest of the jaw and move it. Once the chin is positioned it will be secured with small metal plates and screws. The gum inside the mouth is stitched back into place with dissolvable stitches.
Chin implants can be used to reshape, enlarge, or push forward the appearance of the chin. This can be done through surgery or injection. The surgical route involves implanting plastic material onto the chin and attaching it to the bone. The nonsurgical route involves using needles to inject fillers, like body fat, to enhance the appearance of the chin. These procedures can be done in a hospital or an office operating room and are done under general anesthesia.
While the procedure isn’t particularly painful, it is likely to be sore. You will be prescribed painkillers to manage pain. Most of the discomfort will be felt during the first few days but it can take a couple of weeks for it to disappear. You may also be given antibiotics to help prevent infection. Your chin will feel swollen and tight immediately after the procedure. Swelling and bruising may be worst on the second or third day after the procedure. Use cold compresses to reduce swelling and sleep upright for a few days. You may need to eat a soft diet and gradually build up to normal food over a few days as you heal. As with any operation there are potential complications. The complications that you may experience include bleeding, numbness, and infection. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:
• Fever that is higher than 100.4 degrees F
• Bleeding that can’t be stopped with light pressure
• Swelling and bruising that doesn’t go away within a week
• Strong-smelling odor coming from the incision
• Yellow or green discharge
Genioplasty is a straightforward procedure that can improve the overall appearance of a person’s face. In a study of genioplasty patients, all said they were happy with the results and experienced a higher sense of self-esteem. Is it right for you? Contact ENT Specialists to discuss chin surgery today.
