Chin surgery, or genioplasty/mentoplasty, reshapes the chin through implant enhancement or bone reduction. Plastic surgery, including office procedures, enhances the lower jaw line and chin for facial proportion improvement, boosting confidence and self-esteem. Board-certified plastic surgeons frequently recommend these interventions to enhance facial harmony and balance.

There are two different types of chin surgery: 

• Chin Augmentation: This involves placing an implant directly on the bone to enhance an underprojected chin. A small incision is made either inside the mouth or under the chin’s skin, and after implant placement, sutures close the incision. Mild swelling may occur briefly, and most patients can return to work within a week.
• Chin Reduction: Chin reduction, or chin shaving surgery, is performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure to reduce a prominent chin. A small incision is made inside the mouth or under the skin of the chin. Excess bone is removed, and the chin is contoured. The incision is closed with sutures.

Is it right for me? 

Chin Surgery is an individualized procedure, and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image. 

Chin Surgery may be a good option for:

• You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
• You have realistic expectations
• You are a nonsmoker
• You are bothered by the appearance of your chin
• You have a chin that is too short or lack projection

Your consultation is your time to ask the doctor about the procedure you’re considering, how he thinks it will work for you and any concerns you may have.

Questions to Consider:

• What is the simplest and safest surgery to help me achieve my goals?
• Are other options available?
• What results can I expect, and how long do the typical results last?
• Where will scars be located, and how noticeable will they be?
• Will scars fade over time, and how long will this take?

Your surgeon will:

• Assess your overall health and any pre-existing conditions or risk factors.
• Capture photographs for reference.
• Engage in discussions about available options and potential outcomes of the chin surgery, including risks and complications.

After your consultation with the physician, you will meet with the practice manager to discuss procedure costs.

Comprehensive comprehension of every facet of your arm lift procedure is crucial. It’s normal to experience a range of emotions, from excitement about the anticipated transformation to a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t hesitate to openly discuss these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

There are several things to do prior to your procedure that will make your recovery as smooth as possible and ease your pre-procedure anxiety.

Your Pre-Op Checklist:

• Make sure you have arranged for someone to drive you to and from the surgery.
• Consult with your surgeon and adhere to their instructions.
• Take prescribed medications or modify current medication as directed.
• Complete necessary lab tests within 30 days of your procedure.
• Cease smoking, alcohol consumption, and drug use.
• Refrain from taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements to mitigate potential bleeding.

 Day of Surgery:

• Be on time for your scheduled surgery appointment.
• Bring a companion aged 18 or older.
• Refrain from eating or drinking after midnight prior to your surgery.
• Opt for loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and remove on the day of your surgery.

Above all, adhering to your surgeon’s pre-surgery recommendations is key to a successful and swift recovery.

Anesthesia:

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

The Incision: 

Chin surgery involves distinct incisions, varying based on the chosen technique and your surgeon’s preference. Some plastic surgeons opt for an incision inside the mouth, while others perform the procedure through an incision under the chin.

Closing the Incision: 

Sutures, skin adhesives or tapes close the skin incisions.

Recovery durations following a Chin Surgery vary for each patient, ranging from days to months.

Following chin surgery, incisions may be covered with gauze or bandages. An elastic bandage or compression garment might be used to minimize swelling and provide support. If a chin implant is placed through an incision inside the mouth, a liquid diet and special mouth rinses may be advised. 

You will receive detailed instructions covering:

• Proper care post-surgery
• Medications for healing and infection prevention
• Specific signs to monitor at the surgical site and for overall health
• Follow-up schedule with your plastic surgeon

Ensure you address specific queries about your individual recovery:

• Post-surgery destination.
• Prescribed medications.
• Duration of dressings/bandages and removal timeline.
• Are the stitches scheduled for removal, and if so, when is the expected timeframe? 
• When can I safely resume normal activities and exercise? 
• What is the recommended timing for my follow-up care appointment?

Your plastic surgeon and/or their team will provide detailed explanations of surgery-associated risks. Consent forms will be signed to ensure your full comprehension of the procedure and potential complications.

Some Risks Involved:

• Anesthesia risks
• Asymmetry
• Bleeding
• Chin implant displacement
• Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications