Genioplasty
Genioplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that can create or augment the chin. Aesthetic changes to the chin create a good profile for the chin and also help balance out other facial features.
Learn More About Genioplasty
Patients who are unhappy with the appearance of their chin may want to consider this option to improve the aesthetic appearance of the face. People who have naturally recessed or extremely small chins are typical examples of individuals who want this procedure. Patients unhappy with the size or shape of their jaw may also be interested in getting genioplasty to balance out other facial features they wish to change, such as a prominent nose or an asymmetrical jawline.
There are two types of genioplasty: sliding genioplasty (contouring the natural chin bone) and augmentation genioplasty (chin implants using silicone or ePTFE).
During the sliding genioplasty procedure, an incision is made behind the chin. Once the skin and tissue are raised aside, a portion of the mispositioned bone is removed or repositioned. Surgical plates and screws are used to help maintain proper alignment of the chin while healing, and the incisions are closed.
This is a simple procedure that lasts for about an hour but can significantly improve the symmetry and harmony of facial features. This process can also decrease the chin’s width to create a narrow, slim appearance.In the augmentation genioplasty procedure, a soft silicone implant is inserted behind the chin to create a more prominent, defined shape. A chin implant can also be made from ePTFE material as well as from autologous bone or allograft.
Patients report pain, swelling, and some bruising of the jaw after genioplasty. This can be managed by pain medication. The chin will be covered with a bandage to protect the soft tissue and will be removed during your first follow-up visit after 1-2 days of surgery.
One may not be able to chew or swallow properly for the first few days, and soft or liquid food is recommended. In a few cases, patients may experience temporary numbness or paralysis in their lower lip and chin area from nerve damage that occurs when the surgeon moves tissue around. Doctors may recommend that patients take about one week off of work after this procedure, but some people may need more time off if they experience significant discomfort or other complications. Patients can usually resume their normal activities within 2-3 weeks of the surgery, although they should refrain from strenuous physical activity for several months after the surgery.
Most patients are very satisfied with the results of this procedure. A more defined chin can give a person a more symmetrical, attractive appearance. Patients who have had this surgery report having higher self-esteem and overall better quality of life after their surgery.
Be sure to trust your facial cosmetic surgeries with a skilled and experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeon like Dr. Sonneveld. When planning a cosmetic procedure, he will consider your entire facial bone structure, nerves, and tissues to provide the best aesthetic outcome.
Give us a call today at 817-927-1818 or fill out the form below to schedule an appointment. You’ll be happy you chose Facial & Cosmetic Surgery Fort Worth.