Chin surgery, also known as Mentoplasty and Genioplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin, either by enhancement with an implant or reduction of the bone. Faces come in all different shapes and sizes, but some patients may feel that their chin is not in balance with the rest of their facial features.
Whether the patient feels their chin protrudes too far or seeks more definition around the jaw line, Chin Augmentation or Reduction could be performed to provide more self-confidence and aesthetic enhancement to the facial structure.
Dr. Zacharia may suggest chin surgery as a supplement to nose reshaping (Rhinoplasty), because a small chin can make the nose appear larger. Chin surgery may be recommended as part of a combination treatment plan for a facelift.
Some of the indications that you may be a good candidate for chin surgery are:
There are two main techniques and approaches used in chin surgery. Both Chin Augmentation and Reduction procedures begin with an incision made as discreetly as possible in one of two locations:
Chin Implants (Augmentation) surgery
The physician creates space for the implant by gently stretching the natural tissues. Then, a synthetic implant is placed in this space, where it augments the contours of the patient’s face to make the chin appear more prominent. It is also possible for a physician to transplant donor tissues, such as cartilage from a tissue bank, although this is less common than the use of artificial implants.
Chin Reduction surgery
The professional trims the bone to a size that is more aesthetically pleasing. Excess fat and other soft tissues may be removed as well. If the chin is set too far back, the physician may reposition the bone, bringing it forward. Once all of the surgical work is complete, the incision is closed with sutures. A chin surgery may also be done at the same time as other facial procedures, such as a face-lift, neck lift or Blepharoplasty.
There are two different types of chin surgery that can be performed:
Chin Implants is a surgical procedure performed in order to change the shape of the chin, by either moving part of the bone forward or adding an implant (to build up a “weak jaw”, called “chin augmentation.”) Chin implants are used in order to provide better balance to the face and those with large or prominent noses may want to augment their chin for better proportion.
Chin Reduction is a surgical procedure performed in order to reduce the size and the prominence of the chin, by removing part of the bone (to reduce a “jutting jaw,” called “chin reduction.”)
Usually Chin Augmentation or Reduction surgeries are performed on adults. People, who are unhappy with the size and shape of their chin, or the balance of their face, often elect to have this surgery. Only people free of bone disease are candidates for this procedure.
The ideal candidate for Chin Augmentation or Reduction surgery is someone who is in good physical and mental health. Smokers are encouraged to quit at least a couple of weeks before the procedure and it is also recommended to not drink alcohol before and after surgery. This promotes proper healing and aids in avoiding complications during the procedure.
Dr. Zacharia will explain what can be done to assist eligible candidates for this procedure. He will discuss the steps of the proposed surgery and the variables that may affect the procedure.
The cost of chin surgery varies to each individual, as well as the complexity of the procedure performed. The cost will be based on specific fees for the professional, anaesthetic, hospital, and if applicable, charges for an overnight stay.
Any surgery performed for purely aesthetic reasons will not be covered by health insurance. In cases where the procedure is considered medically necessary, such as corrections of birth defects or damage due to trauma, the procedure may be covered. It is recommended that patients discuss what will be covered by their insurers prior to booking the procedure.
Book a consultation, request a quote online, or contact the staff at Dr. Zacharia’s rooms today on (02) 9192 1600.
At the consultation, Dr. Zacharia will discuss the procedure, risks and limitations, costs involved, patient expectations and goals, as well as the recovery process. He will also conduct a medical examination and help the patient prepare both physically and mentally for chin surgery.
Dr. Zacharia will then provide a checklist surgery information package that explains everything a patient should do and know before their chin surgery date.
Right after surgery, some discomfort may be experience, which generally can be controlled with medication. Recovery varies with each individual. After the procedure is completed, patients are admitted to recovery and monitored for a couple of hours or overnight, before being driven home by a companion.
Recovery varies with each individual. However, the post-op appointment, scheduled for approximately one to 14 days after surgery, is the a good time to discuss your healing and recovery processes with a physician and nurse
No surgery is risk free. As with all procedures, there are number of risks and complications. Understanding the risks is imperative and Dr. Zacharia discusses these openly with prospective patients in the initial consultation.
The chance that any of these complications may occur during the surgery or during recovery is usually very small.
The following is a list the most common risks that may occur, such as infection and excessive bleeding, nerve damage, leading to temporary or permanent numbness. Aesthetic complications can include asymmetry or an implant that moves out of position within the chin.
During the initial consultation, Dr. Zacharia will answer any questions and make sure the patient fully understands all possible complications involved with the surgery.
After chin surgery, a surgical dressing covers the area. For the first week to ten days of recovery, patients can expect to feel some degree of swelling, redness, and bruising, along with tenderness and discomfort. The ability to chew will be limited, requiring a liquid or soft food diet for a few days. Patients may also experience discomfort when speaking, yawning, or otherwise moving the mouth. Many patients find that their chin feels tight or stretched, but this sensation usually subsides within a week. Patients are typically able to return home the same day as the procedure and can expect to work and enjoy other daily activities in about a week.
At least one week is recommended but most patients return to work within a week or two.
The results are immediate, although patients may think that the implant is too big at first glance. Time is required to recognise the difference between swelling and augmentation. The final result should be evident in a few months.
