Procedure name:
Chin Augmentation
Anticipated result of the procedure:
Chin surgery, also known as genioplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin by enhancement with an implant. Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery to a patient having nose surgery in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose. Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.
Procedure Description:
The incision will be made in the crease under your chin or inside the mouth. The implant (if applicable) will be situated directly on top of the bone and it may be sutured into it's pocket or screwed into place. Your surgeon may remove and replace the implant several times intra-operatively to ascertain a custom fit before permanent fixation and your own bone may be used for genioplasty. For a so-called “sliding genioplasty,” a sliver or section of bone is "slid" forward. The bone graft is then secured into its new place with bone plates and screws.
Length:
Anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 ½ hours.
Anesthesia:
General or local with sedation.
In/ Outpatient:
Usually outpatient
Temporary Side Effects:
Following a chin augmentation you will have swelling and bruising. You will have to take it easy and sleep on two pillows to keep your head elevated for 7-14 days - or however long your surgeon suggests. When you wake up you will notice that your face will look even more swollen in the first 3 days. But, as the days go on the swelling will dissipate. There may be bruising, but this will go away, within two weeks.
Recovery:
After a chin augmentation, you will more than likely experience some discomfort for several weeks - having had intraoral incisions your diet may be restricted. Even though you may feel better, you must take it easy for the first 3 weeks. Be careful not to bend over or lift heavy objects.
Duration of Results:
Synthetic implants stay permanently. Your face may still age over time around the implants. Fat grafts may partially reabsorb or completely disappear over time.
Risks:
With chin implants the risk of bacterial infection is possible. You should immediately notify your surgeon if you see any discolored or foul smelling drainage.
If you develop a postoperative infection with a synthetic implant the implant must be removed, the infection dealt with, and then you must wait for several months before an additional surgery can be performed to re-implant. Infections usually occur within the first few weeks.
Top Duke specialists:
Jeffrey R. Marcus, MD
Michael Zenn, MD
FAQS
What are chin implants made of?
Chin implants are made of various materials including silastic (silicone) and medpore (polyester) implants. These substances have a very low rejection rate and have been proven safe and effective for chin implant procedures.
For males, does a chin implant affect shaving?
Not really. For about three days the dressing covers the incision. Men may shave around the incision until the dressing comes off on the fourth day. Then they may shave the entire face and chin area with a straight edge blade for one week. It is best to resume using an electric razor at about ten days postoperatively. Care must be taken if there are areas of numbness.
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