Tag: chin implants

How to Aid Your Recovery after Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

How to Aid Your Recovery after Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Cosmetic surgery can address a lot of aesthetic concerns including concerns about the shape or size of your chin. A chin augmentation properly known as genioplasty surgery, can help people who want to change their side profile. But your final results will only be visible after the recovery after genioplasty.

Dr Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon who performs genioplasty procedures in Sydney NSW.

Guide to Recovery

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Types of Chin Augmentation (Genioplasty)

Genioplasty is a medical term used for chin augmentation. They are mainly of two types: chin augmentation and sliding genioplasty. The procedure can be performed either by a facial plastic surgeon or a maxillofacial surgeon. Let’s discuss the types of chin augmentation or genioplasty surgery in detail:

· Chin Implants

Chin implants for genioplasty are a cosmetic surgery procedure that completely alters the look of your chin by increasing/ decreasing the size of the chin and reshaping it. The procedure is usually performed with the patient under general anaesthesia. During the surgery, Dr Hunt will make incisions on the sides of your face or behind your earlobes. Then a synthetic plastic material will be inserted into the chin which will essentially secure the bone.

If you decide to go with a non-surgical approach, fillers can be injected into the chin area.

· Sliding Genioplasty

The procedure is also called osseous genioplasty. During the surgery, Dr Hunt will cut the chin and jawbone to correct the patient’s chin concerns. The aim is to reshape the chin, and jaw bone, and give a more stable structure to your face.

The procedure is recommended to patients with retrogenia. Retrogenia is a genetic condition that causes the chin to protrude backward toward the neck. Generally, retrogenia doesn’t negatively impact the functionality of the jaw/mouth. Sometimes the severe forms of the condition can lead to laboured breathing in infants which requires correction.

Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Pre-Surgery Preparation

The basis of recovery is laid during the pre-surgery phase. Every surgical/non-surgical procedure requires some kind of preparation on your part. Before your surgery, Dr Hunt will guide you and give you instructions to follow before the surgery. During the consultation, ask as many questions as you would like until you are fully clear on how to take care of yourself.

Here are a few recommendations to help you prepare for surgery:

· Quit Smoking

Make sure to quit smoking a few weeks before the surgery. Smoking will cause carcinogens and toxins to enter the bloodstream. It can prevent blood from delivering oxygen to all the organs in your body which can severely disrupt the healing process.

· Stay Clear of Certain Medications

Make sure to avoid all the over-the-counter meds, pain killers, supplements, all sorts of anti-inflammatory meds, and any OTC drugs as it can lead to prolonged bleeding post the surgery. Be sure to get the complete list of medications that must be avoided. While you are at it, get a list of prescription medications that you will be needing post-surgery and stock up on them in advance.

· Prepare Your Meals in Advance

Make sure to prepare healthy, home-cooked meals and refrigerate them. It will come in the handy post the surgery. You don’t want to have foods that are high in sodium post the surgery. Hence, it is important to stock up on healthy meals in advance.

· Important Contacts

Keep all the important contacts in one place including your emergency care provider and display them somewhere where you can see them. Send the important contacts to close friends and family members that will be assisting you during the recovery period.

· Prepare Your Resting Space

Make sure to prepare your resting space in advance. This would be typically your bedroom. Make sure to include everything that you will need in one space. It includes a couple of extra pillows, chargers, books, and any other entertainment options on your bedside table. Stock up on your meds and keep them on the side along with a few snacks.

· Make Practical Arrangements in Advance

A few weeks before the procedure, make sure to get all the major chores done in advance. This will give you peace of mind. Make sure that you come to a tidy and clean home where you can rest in comfort. Get your hands on comfortable clothing such as button-down shirts and zip-up garments.

Make sure to get your clothes ironed and ready for the first few weeks of recovery. You won’t feel like doing your laundry when you are recovering. Make sure you have easy to wear, comfortable, and breathable clothes to wear during the recovery period.

Arrange for someone to drive you home after the surgery. Take a week off from work, or more if your job is physically demanding.

How Long Is the Recovery Period After Genioplasty?

drhunt blogpage img How to Aid Your Recovery after Chin Surgery (Genioplasty) - 1

Injectable (non-surgical) chin implants don’t come with an extensive recovery period. You might be asked to stay cautious and avoid certain activities for a few days.

However, in the case of surgical procedures, the recovery period is longer.

The first-week post the surgery is typically the most challenging. You are bound to experience bruising, swelling, and redness around the incision site. These all are normal and to be expected. After the first two weeks, you will be able to return to your usual activities. Do not engage in any strenuous activities and stay clear of the heavy lifting as well. The recovery period will last around six weeks. After that, most patients are fully healed and will be able to get back to their usual routines. During the recovery phase, you have to take proper care of yourself and allow yourself to recover.

Genioplasty (Chin-Implant) Post Surgery Recovery Tips

Here are a few tips for you to help with your recovery:

· Walking Works

Make sure to take short walks of around 10 to 15 minutes daily post the surgery. This will kick start your healing journey, improve blood circulation and help to prevent the formation of blood clots.

· Take Your Pills

Take all your medications on time. They will help keep the swelling and pain at bay. Do not take any over the counter drugs and supplements without the consent of Dr Hunt as it can worsen the bruising and swelling.

· Cold Compress

Use cold compression to minimise swelling and bruising after the surgery. The cold temperature will help constrict the blood vessels and minimise bruising. Do not put ice directly on your skin. Always wrap it up in a towel and place it on the chin area for 10 minutes at a time. Then take a break of 10 to 15 minutes.

· Incision Care

Take care of your incisions as per the instructions given to you by Dr Hunt. Make sure to keep them clean and dry at all times. Apply the topical ointments as instructed. Do not put any kind of pressure on the incisions.

· Activity Levels

Stay clear of all sorts of strenuous activities during the first two weeks of recovery. Do not lift anything heavy during this time frame. During the initial two weeks, walking is the only safe workout. Post two weeks, you can start incorporating light activities into your routine. However, it is important to consult Dr Hunt in this regard and listen to his opinion. More importantly, listen to your own body. At any point, if you feel tired and fatigued, stop, catch a breath, drink some water and rest as needed.

· Your Diet during Recovery

Stay clear of chewing as much as possible. Smoothies, juices, and soft cereals are great options. Choose soft foods. Moreover, keep in mind that eating can be difficult initially. Slowly, it will get better. Make sure to eat foods that are low in sodium. Limit your caffeine intake as well. Sodium and caffeine can worsen the swelling and slow down the recovery process. Drink plenty of water as well.

· Wear a Chin Strap

Wearing a chin strap is important if you want to get rid of the swelling quickly. Dr Hunt might advise you to wear it for two weeks. Ideally, you should be wearing it even while sleeping.

· Follow Up Visits

Make sure to go to all of your follow up appointments. This gives Dr Hunt a chance to overview your progress.

· Sleeping Position

Sleep with your head in an elevated position. Ideally, a recliner would work best. If you want to sleep in your bed instead, stack up a few pillows underneath your head. Avoid laying on your side or face as it will put direct pressure on your incisions.

· Smoking/Alcohol

Do not consume alcohol and avoid smoking for the initial few weeks of recovery. Both of these aren’t only harmful to your health but also can disrupt recovery and worsen bruising and swelling. So, it is best to avoid them for the specified time duration.

· Other Instructions

Avoid bending over or putting any pressure on the incision site. You can brush your teeth but be very gentle and careful. You need to take proper care of your incisions as per the instructions given by Dr Hunt. Avoid excessive facial movements including smiling, and grinning for the first two to three weeks. At any point, if you experience any discomfort or complications, reach out to your medical team.

Results of Genioplasty

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Chin Reduction Surgery Before-and-After_Chin-Surgery_Dr-Jeremy-Hunt_Top-Plastic-Surgeon_Sydney

The final results of the chin surgery (genioplasty) are not visible immediately after the procedure because of the swelling. Most of the swelling will subside in about two weeks. But there might be some swelling that take nearly six weeks to go away. After this, most patients can start to see the full results.

If you experience any of the following symptoms during the recovery phase: shortness of breath, chest pains or unusual heartbeats, immediately get in touch with your doctor and seek medical care.

Following Dr Hunt’s instructions as closely as possible is one of the key elements of a successful recovery. It is important to remember that each person is different and will heal at a different pace and that is alright. Educate yourself properly and prepare in advance.

Further Reading about Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Medical References about Genioplasty

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery.

He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of ASPS – the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If blepharoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Solutions for Patients Considering Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Surgical and Non-Surgical Solutions for Patients Considering Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Retrognathia, sometimes called a “receding chin,” typically happens when your lower jaw is not aligned correctly with the upper jaw. Most of the time, this is simply a cosmetic issue. However, in some cases, it might indicate underlying health concerns or jaw problems.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon Dr Jeremy Hunt has completed many chin procedures in Australia. Dr Hunt is a Sydney plastic surgeon who practices in Sydney and Wollongong NSW.

Plastic Surgeon Dr Maryam Seyedabadi consults at the Woollahra Clinic in East Sydney and is available now for consultations on a range of plastic surgery & cosmetic surgery.

Reasons for Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

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Before diving into the possible solutions, let’s have a look at the possible causes of retrognathia.

Some individuals are born with a severely set-back chin, and this often falls into a number of craniofacial conditions. In some cases, children can grow out of it as they age. On the other hand, a pronounced overbite can lead to a small chin and jawline. With the ongoing ageing process and bone resorption, your jawline becomes less pronounced.

If it is present from birth we call this condition congenital. It can even be dangerous if it begins to affect the ability to breathe or eat.

See how Dr Hunt Performs Craniofacial Surgery in Sydney.

Childhood Disorders impacting the chin can include:

  • Treacher Collins syndrome
  • Pierre Robin Sequence (Pierre Robin syndrome)
  • Down syndrome

In order to avoid malnutrition, it’s enough to adjust the child’s posture while they eat. While lying on their stomach, putting a pillow under their chest helps. Headgear can help correct the alignment of the jaw. In more serious cases such as Treacher Collins syndrome, surgery might be needed.

Types of Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

To treat a small chin or retrognathia, you will most likely need surgery. Both implants and genioplasty involve reshaping and cutting of the lower jaw bone. Prior to opting for surgery, keep in mind that it is major surgery and can take you about six weeks or more to recover.

1. Chin Implants

Chin implants or chin augmentation, also called genioplasty, can be an option for retrogenia, a chin point that is under projected. The procedure is done on an outpatient basis. The surgeon will create an incision along the crease of the chin when the inside of your mouth meets your gum line. Post the incision, the surgeon will insert the implant and close up the stitches. The procedure is done under local and general anaesthesia.

This type of surgery can suit mild to moderate cases of retrognathia. There will be a small scar under the chin from the insertion of the implant. There is always a risk of infection and nerve damage. In some cases, patients might be allergic to implants which can create negative reactions.

2. Sliding Genioplasty

Sliding Genioplasty can be an option for severely receding chins and patients looking to not use a chin implant, but prefer to use their own bone. It will involve making a small cut inside the mouth at the base of the gum line which allows the surgeon access to the bone in the chin. This allows the surgeon to bring your bone forward. They will use a small metal plate to reposition your bone in place.

A Sliding genioplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and has the advantage that there is no scar on the outside, as it is usually hidden in the mouth on the gum line.

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

male chin augmentation surgery - genioplasty before and after dr jeremy hunt

3. Jaw Surgery

In some cases, jaw surgery might be done along with the chin surgery (genioplasty) or separately. This option is mostly done when your chin condition is linked with specific health concerns such as sleep apnoea, difficulty swallowing, speech impediment, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ, TMD), difficulty chewing, and trouble closing the lips or jaw, difficulty breathing.

You might need to undergo upper jaw surgery, lower jaw surgery or a combination of both. The procedures require the surgeon to separate the jaw, move it, and fasten it as it heals.

Other Non-Surgical Treatment Options – Using Injectable Fillers

Fillers – such as Hyaluronic acid- that are used for lips, can be used to augment the chin and increase projection. The results are limited though and it is a procedure that works in patients who need minimal augmentation. Dermal fillers will leave you with no scarring and lead to a shorter recovery time than sliding genioplasty and implant surgeries.

The choice of treatment depends on the shape and size of your chin as well as your goals. You will see different websites advertise exercises and over-the-counter remedies for a receding chin but they typically won’t work. If the cause of your under-projected chin is linked to orthodontic issues like an open bite or overbite, you may be able to treat it with dental retainer or braces.

Your orthodontist will have to figure out whether the issue is dental or not, originating in your teeth, or whether it’s skeletal, originating in your bones. If the issue is dental, it can be fixed with orthodontics. Skeletal issues will require a combination of orthodontics combination with surgery.

Recovery after Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Multiple factors influence the recovery time such as the type of procedure, the extent of surgical changes, how quickly will your body heal, and potential complications. Post the implant procedure, you will be able to return back to work within 7 days.

The chin will be healed within a few weeks of the procedure. Complete recovery occurs when there aren’t any signs associated with residual swelling that can last for 3 months. People who have undergone sliding genioplasty or implant surgeries must attend regular follow-up appointments so the surgeon can monitor healing and address complications. Read more about Recovery after Chin Surgery (genioplasty).

Potential Risks and Complications of Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

All surgical procedures carry some risk of complications and side effects. Genioplasty procedures can lead to temporary side effects, such as redness, bruising, tenderness, pain, swelling, loss of sensation, and numbness.

Other serious complications of genioplasty can include infection, damage to nerves, tooth roots, allergic reaction to filler or implant material, and changes in implant position.

Benefits of Genioplasty and Other Chin Treatments

Genioplasty procedures completely change the appearance of a misaligned chin. The shape and size of the chin play a very important role in balancing out the other facial features and contribute to overall facial harmony.

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FAQ about Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding under-projected chins and its possible solutions:

What causes a recessed or misaligned chin?

  • There are many causes of a naturally under-projected chin or retrognathia. In some cases, it comes as a natural part of the ageing process. With age, some people naturally lose a bit of bone and soft tissue around the jaw area. For some people, it comes as a part of genetics. For others, an overbite or congenial conditions can play a role.

How do you fix a receding chin?

  • There are many ways to treat a chin that is under-pronounced. The most common treatment options include chin implant (genioplasty), sliding genioplasty and jaw surgery. Dermal fillers may also help but are temporary.

Can you train your jaw to come forward?

  • The surgery used to correct a severe malocclusion from a misaligned jaw is called orthognathic surgery. This includes procedures to move the upper jaw or maxilla forward, backward, or even to widen it. It also includes procedures to move the lower jaw or mandible rotationally to correct asymmetry, forward or backward.

How do you stop a receding jaw?

  • Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to stop the natural shape of your jaw. To correct it, you will usually need to get surgery. Chin implants (genioplasty) and sliding genioplasty can help as it involves cutting and reshaping your lower jaw bone. Keep in mind that it is an invasive procedure and you will need at least six weeks off from work.

How can I increase my chin size naturally?

  • Unfortunately, there isn’t anything you can do to alter the chin size naturally. A lot of people on the internet claim that chin exercises help, but there is little to no evidence of that.

How much does a chin surgery (genioplasty) cost?

  • The cost of chin surgery (genioplasty) can vary based on the type of procedure, surgeon, geographical location, and experience of the surgeon. Phone the team for an estimate.

The outcomes shown are only relevant for this patient and do not necessarily reflect the results other patients may experience, as results may vary due to many factors including the individual’s genetics, diet and exercise.

Chin Augmentation Sydney Surgery Before-and-After_Chin-Surgery_Dr-Jeremy-Hunt_Top-Plastic-Surgeon_Sydney

How can I alter my jawline without surgery?

  • Based on what you desire to be changed, there are certain options you can look into; dermal fillers to the jawline, neurotoxin to the masseter muscles, kybella injections to minimise the neck and chin fat, surgical threads to tighten loose skin, neck liposuction, and radiofrequency energy. Please note that these procedures don’t work if your jaw is misaligned and can only be fixed with chin surgery (genioplasty) or jaw surgery.

Does the chin keep growing?

  • Some boys only grow until about 16 years of age; others grow until they are in their early 20s. Girls usually stop growing about two years after their first menstrual period begins. Once you stop growing, your chin will stop growing, too.

Can mewing change the shape of the chin?

  • Mewing is a technique that proponents claim can reshape the jaw over time. Mewing involves placing the tongue on the roof of the mouth, which supposedly will reshape the jaw over time. There is currently no scientific evidence that this works.

Can braces change the shape of the chin?

  • If your receding chin is linked to orthodontic issues, such as an open bite or overbite, braces might be able to fix it. However, it is not always the case and you might need the help of cosmetic surgery.

Further Reading about Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

  • Adriana Lima, Marilyn Monroe, Draya Michelle, Ivanka Trump, and Tiffany Trump are a few of the celebrities that started their career with a receding chin. However, they were later believed to have had chin surgery.

Further Reading about Receding Chin Surgery

Medical References about a Receding Chin

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Specialist Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery in Australia. He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is suitable for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and requires a personalised approach to reach their goals.

Dr Hunt has provided his one-on-one service and attention to detail to thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A. Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery. He completed a Fellowship at the University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from well-established and experienced plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If breast reduction mammoplasty is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.