Genioplasty is a cosmetic surgery done on the chin to enhance facial features by repositioning the chin to align it well with the rest of the face.
A strong chin helps create symmetry, especially if you have a naturally large nose. It also enhances the overall shape and facial profile. Chin surgery or genioplasty also helps correct receding chin, double chin, and chin misalignment.
sliding genioplasty surgery or osseous genioplasty is recommended for people with severe retrognathia (a retro settled chin). The surgeon determines if the patient is ready for the procedure by checking the cephalometric parameters. Under GA or local anesthesia, the procedure proceeds to cut the lower lip’s gum to get to the chin bone. After separating soft tissues from the chin bone, the surgeon uses a saw to cut the chin bone; and then, depending on the requirements of the case, the bone is either moved forward or backward to get it into its desired position.
A jumping genioplasty is the other version of the genioplasty where the chin bone is moved both forward and upward as part of the reconstruction. This is usually done for patients who have small and narrow chins that are long in the vertical dimension.
Screws and metal plates are then used to secure the bones into their new position. The incision is stitched, followed by applying compression tape on the outside of the mouth and chin to ensure complete healing of the wound. The procedure usually doesn’t last long, and the patient can go back home the same day.
Recovery time differs from patient to patient – initially, patients may experience swelling and discomfort around the area, so it’s highly recommended that they be on a soft food diet not further to aggravate the wound. Patients can start eating normally in a few weeks and when they feel they are ready.
Avoid exercise and other strenuous activities until the wound heals completely. However, you’ll have to wait for 4-6 months or sometimes longer for the best results.