Chin Reduction Shaping

The normal chin is in balance with the forehead and nose. The aesthetics of the face requires that each part is in harmony with the others. Thus a chin that is too large (macrogenia) detracts from the other normal features.

A large chin can give the appearance that the nose is too small and Chin Reduction is necessary to restore the balance of the face. This imbalance can have a major impact on the psychological well being of the patient. Patients can suffer low self-esteem and become withdrawn. Chin Reduction, Genioplasty Surgery to reduce the chin aims to restore the balance and provide a natural aesthetic appearance.

Remember Chin Reduction Plastic Surgery, Genioplasty Surgery will not change you or solve any life crises, but should boost your self-confidence and enjoyment of life.

Q: What is Chin Reduction Surgery, Reduction Genioplasty?

A: Improving the facial balance by reducing the prominence or reshaping the chin is performed by reshaping the front on the mandible. The goal is to provide suitable projection of the chin as well as the correct height of the chin which is in balance with the other facial features. The optimum balance is determined by the proportions of the upper, mid and lower face, which is specific to men and women.

Q: Am I the ideal patient for Chin Reduction, Genioplasty Surgery?

A: The ideal patients for Chin Reduction Surgery are people with a large chin which is out of proportion to the face (macrogenia), but who have a normal dental bite.

Q: Does Chin Reduction Surgery require a general anaesthetic or hospitalisation?

A: Chin Reduction Surgery is performed under general anaesthetic, commonly as a day-case procedure.

Q: Will I require an XRay of my chin before surgery?

A: Pre Operative XRays of the mandible (lower jaw bone) will be obtained in order to check the lower teeth roots and to plan the degree of reshaping required to restore the lower face balance.

Q: How long is the procedure?

A: Chin Reduction Surgery normally takes approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours to perform depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Q: What about the scars following Chin Reduction Surgery?

A: The incision is placed in the lower gum of the lip and is therefore hidden inside the mouth. This incision heals well in 5 – 7 days.

Q: Will a special garment be required after Chin Reduction Surgery?

A: Following Chin Reduction Surgery, a facial support garment is fitted at the end of surgery to help control swelling and reduce movement post operatively. This should be worn day and night for the first week.

Q: Can Chin Reduction Surgery be performed at the same time as other procedures?

A: Yes, Chin Reduction is commonly performed together with Rhinoplasty or other face surgery such as Facelift, Browlift, Cheek Augmentation as well as Breast Surgery, Augmentation or Liposuction. What is appropriate and safe for you to combine will depend on your Medical Health, your goals and the individual procedures.

Q: What reassurance do I have with Chin Reduction Surgery?

A: At LBPS, we understand that your decision to have Chin Reduction Surgery can be a daunting and anxious time for you. Our aim is to fully understand your concerns and desires, and assess your face accurately, before agreeing on a treatment plan which is in your best interest. If for any reason you are unsuitable for Chin Reduction Surgery, you will be advised against this form of surgery. We will provide you with all the information you need and support before, during and after your surgery.

Q: How long is the recovery time?

A: Moderate pain / discomfort is expected for 3 – 5 days. Patients can go back to their normal daily activities after 1 week, but avoid strenuous exercise / activity for 6 weeks including any contact sports.

Q: What about the results of Chin Reduction Surgery?

A: The results are first and foremost natural. The goals of Chin Reduction Surgery are to restore an aesthetically pleasing facial shape which is in balance with your facial features – i.e. looks natural and does not appear abnormal. Remember it can take 6 weeks or more for the final result to be achieved.

Q: What are the risks of Chin Reduction Surgery?

A: Common to all surgical procedures there are always risks associated with surgery. However, complications are uncommon. Bruising can occur and may take 2 weeks to resolve, while major bleeding is rare. Infection is infrequent (less than 0.5%) and will require a course of appropriate antibiotics. Some altered sensation around the chin and lower lip is expected and will commonly return to normal between 6 to 12 weeks after surgery.

Q: How long do the results of Chin Reduction Surgery last?

A: The results of Chin Reduction Surgery are permanent but note that as you age your chin will change over the years. For example, the tissues around the chin will continue to be affected by the aging changes and gravity.

 

Before Your Surgery

• Size – Important to discuss your aims carefully. Surgery should achieve an aesthetically balanced chin, mid-face and upper face.
• Smoking – Essential to stop at least 3 weeks before surgery and until wounds are fully healed or at least 2 weeks after.
• Drugs – Avoid aspirin/ibuprofen type analgesics for 2 weeks before and after your surgery.

Your Chin Reduction Surgery

• Anaesthetic – Normally a general anaesthetic with local anaesthetic to the chin – day case procedure.
• Scars – Inside lower lip.
• Sutures – Dissolving in 1-2 weeks.
• Dressings – Supportive face strap worn for 7 days day & night, then for 2-3 weeks as much as possible.

After Your Surgery

• Chin support – Beneficial to wear support as much as possible for 2 – 3 weeks.
• Exercise – Avoid vigorous exercise for 4 weeks, no contact sports for 6 weeks.
• Diet – Soft diet for 7 days, use an antibacterial mouth rinse after every meal or milk drink.
• Swelling – Moderate expected for 2 – 3weeks, final result may take 6 – 12 weeks.

Potential Problems / Risks

• Pain – Moderate discomfort expected, take regular painkillers for 2 -3 days. Avoid Aspirin/Ibuprofen.
• Bruising – Occasional, may last for 2 weeks.
• Wound – Occasionally, mild infection.
• Rarely, serious infection requiring antibiotics.
• Rarely, haematoma (blood collection) that may require drainage.
• Sensation – Some diminished sensation may occur in the lower lip and chin. Return to normal may take up to 6 weeks.
• Teeth – Rarely injury to the root of the tooth which will need Dental treatment.