Chin Surgery

Chin Surgery

A small and receding chin is commonly called a weak chin or retrogenia. Instead of jutting out or lying flat, a receding chin slopes back toward the neck. In both genders, a weak chin affects the ideal facial proportions. For men, this can also contribute to a less masculine appearance. Generally, women prefer a smaller and pointed chin, while men prefer a larger and more angular chin.

Chin surgery, also known as genioplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to reshape the chin. The surgeon can augment a receding chin using a chin implant(augmentation genioplasty). Genioplasty reshapes the chin and helps to create a harmonious facial appearance.

Filler injection can be used as an non-surgical alternative for minor reshaping of the chin

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.

         1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

         2. Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

      4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.

Surgery

Augmentation Genioplasty (Chin Implant)

Duration: 1 hours

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospital Stay: Not required

Recovery*: Back to work in 3-7 days, light exercise after 2 weeks, heavy exercise after 3-4 weeks. * The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgery Technique: The opening can be done through the mucosa inside the mouth or through the skin under the chin. A chin implant is inserted onto the chin bone to reshape the chin.

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect:

         1. Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

         2. Compression dressing will be applied on the chin for 3-5 days

      2. General care

         1. Apply cold pack in first 3 days and warm pack in the following 3 days. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.

         3. Adequate rest and sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         4. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as prescribed when necessary.

      4. Wound care: Regular gargles with normal saline. Avoid hot foods and hot drinks for at least 3 days. Take soft diet and drink a lot of water.

      5. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for at least one month.

      6. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for review.

      7. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, immediately contact the clinic/doctor for advice.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.