Genioplasty is a type of cosmetic surgery that involves repositioning or reshaping the chin to improve facial harmony.
Dr. Narges Mikaniki, with specialized training and experience in treating the head, face, mouth, and jaw, frequently performs genioplasty procedures.
Read more:
People often undergo genioplasty to change the physical appearance of their chin. As a result, genioplasty is generally considered a type of cosmetic surgery. However, certain medical conditions may also require surgical intervention. An example of this is retrognathia, or a receding chin. Retrognathia can lead to obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during the night.
According to a retrospective study conducted in 2018, researchers found that individuals with certain chin and jaw defects are at a higher risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea. This risk is particularly significant if they are over the age of 30 or are overweight.
During a sliding genioplasty, the surgeon uses a saw to cut the chin bone away from the rest of the jaw.
Surgeons reposition the chin by sliding it forward or backward to correct receding or protruding chins.
They can also correct asymmetrical chins by sliding or reshaping one side of the chin to match the other side.
After repositioning the chin bone, the surgeon reattaches it to the jaw with surgical screws.
Surgeons can reshape, lengthen, or augment the chin by attaching plastic or silicone implants around the existing chin bone.
During this procedure, the surgeon places the implant onto the chin bone and secures it with sutures or screws.
Dermal filler injection is a temporary, non-surgical alternative to chin implants.
This type of chin augmentation involves injecting fillers to improve the shape of the chin and the overall appearance of the face. Fillers may include fat, calcium hydroxyapatite, or polycaprolactone.
Individuals should undergo a clinical evaluation with a licensed surgeon before having chin augmentation surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon reviews the person’s medical history and current health status. They will ask the individual to explain what they hope to achieve from the procedure. The surgeon measures the person’s face and takes X-ray and CT images of the jaw. Once the surgeon identifies the most appropriate option, they can provide recommendations and begin planning the procedure.
Patients may need to stay in the hospital for about two nights after a sliding genioplasty. During this time, the surgeon and nurses will monitor their recovery and watch for signs of infection or other complications. Before the patient is discharged, a surgeon or nurse will review post-operative care instructions with them.
These instructions may include:
During a sliding genioplasty, the surgeon uses a saw to cut the chin bone away from the rest of the jaw.
Surgeons reposition the chin by sliding it forward or backward to correct receding or protruding chins.
They can also correct asymmetrical chins by sliding or reshaping one side of the chin to match the other side.
After repositioning the chin bone, the surgeon reattaches it to the jaw with surgical screws.
Post-operative care instructions for surgical implants are similar to those for sliding genioplasty. Patients may notice mild swelling, redness, or bruising, which should resolve on its own. Pain and swelling can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and cold compresses. Most people can return to their daily activities within one week. The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery recommends that patients sleep on their back with their head elevated for 1 to 2 weeks after surgery.
After implant augmentation surgery, a person can return to work after 7 days.
The chin may fully heal within a few weeks. However, complete recovery occurs when there are no remaining signs of swelling, which may take up to 3 months.
Individuals who undergo sliding genioplasty or implant surgery should attend regular follow-up appointments with their surgeon to monitor the healing process and address any complications.
Dermal fillers leave no scars and have a shorter recovery time compared to genioplasty and implant surgeries.
Sliding genioplasty and chin implant surgery are both safe and effective methods for improving the appearance of the chin.
However, all surgical procedures carry the risk of side effects and complications.
Genioplasty procedures can lead to temporary side effects such as:
Genioplasty techniques can improve the aesthetic appearance of a recessed, protruding, or irregular chin. The position and size of the chin play an important role in balancing other facial features such as the nose, forehead, and cheeks, contributing to overall facial harmony. Genioplasty can offer significant benefits for individuals who are dissatisfied with their chin. In a 2011 study of 37 people who underwent sliding genioplasty, more than 94% were highly satisfied with their results.
