All about genioplasty; surgery on the chin

The chin represents one of our most prominent facial features and numerous methods have been used to alter its shape for aesthetic reasons or the chin position may need to be corrected if it is out of balance in relation to the jaw. A genioplasty is surgery done to change the position of the chin and can be performed by both plastic and maxillofacial surgeons.

The surgery is carried out under general anaesthetic, so you will be completely asleep. Normally the surgery is carried out as a day case procedure and an overnight stay in hospital is not required. Sometimes a genioplasty can be carried out in combination with other jaw repositioning surgery and an overnight stay would then be advised.

Maxillofacial surgeon Miss Katherine George runs us through what happens during a genioplasty and long it would take to recover.

What happens during a genioplasty?

The jaw bone is approached by a cut through the inside of the lower lip. This avoids a visible scar on the skin of your face. The jaw bone is then carefully cut with a small saw below the roots of the lower front teeth and below a nerve which supplies sensation to the chin and lower lip.

Once the bone has been cut, it can be moved and placed into the correct position. If the height of the chin needs to be adjusted, bone can either be removed or added by way of a bone graft. The chin is then fixed in its new position with small metal plates or screws, made of titanium. The gum is then closed back together over the bone with dissolving stitches.

How long is the healing process for genioplasty?

Initially, the chin will be swollen following surgery. Most of the swelling settles over a few weeks but more minor swelling can be present for a few months. Painkillers can be prescribed in there is any soreness. Swelling can be reduced using cold compresses and sleeping upright for a few days.

The bone takes about 6 weeks to fully heal but metal plates are not routinely removed unless there is a problem such as an infection, which is uncommon. The lower lip, chin and lower front teeth often feel a bit numb following surgery but this usually recovers over several weeks to months. Less commonly, the numbness or altered sensation can last longer.

Aftercare

Regarding eating after surgery, you shouldn’t have any trouble, although you may start with a soft diet, gradually building up to normal food over the course of a few days. It’s recommended not to do strenuous exercise for up to ten days following a genioplasty and to stay away from contact sports for up to 6-8 weeks.

Are there risks with genioplasty?

As with any operation, there are potential complications. There is a risk that the roots of the lower teeth could suffer damage but this is not common. 

A review appointment should be scheduled with your maxillofacial surgeon upon leaving the hospital. Get in touch with Miss Katherine George if you would like to book a consultation for or require information about a genioplasty.