Looking to enhance your appearance? Find out which type of chin surgery is right for you.
Chin surgery is designed to augment, reconstruct or rejuvenate the appearance of your chin. It can be used to correct a number of cosmetic concerns including:
- A small or weak chin
- Asymmetrical facial features
- Jowls
- Loss of definition in the jawline
- Disproportionate lower jaw size
Visit our Kelowna Private Hospital
Whatever your aesthetic goals, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons offer a wide range of face and general surgery to help you look and feel your very best.
Which Type of Chin Surgery is Right For You?
Cosmetic chin surgery is an excellent option for any patient who feels that their chin is not shaped right in relation to the rest of the face. This change in facial contour can be done by either shifting the facial bones or by adding implants.
So which type is the right option for you?
1. Sliding Genioplasty
A sliding genioplasty is a type of face surgery that involves making a controlled cut in the bone of the chin and moving it horizontally or vertically to improve facial balance.
How is it performed?
During a sliding genioplasty, an incision is made on the inside of the mouth, behind the lower lip, and all of the tissue is lifted off the bone.
The bone is then cut with a saw and moved to the desired position. Once in place, it is fixed with metal plates and screws which are permanent.
Who is a candidate for this chin surgery?
This chin surgery is a more versatile technique than the implant approach and is capable of correcting a wide variety of issues including:
- Asymmetrical chins
- Overly projected/under projected chins
- Overly lengthy chins
**The level of adaptability made possible by this technique makes it an ideal approach for patients who present complex chin abnormalities**
What are the risks involved with this face surgery?
Although very rare, the most common risks inherent to this face surgery include:
- Relapse
- Infection
- Fixation hardware issues
- Bleeding
However, the risk of these complications can be lowered significantly when an experienced plastic surgeon performs the operation.
What is the recovery period?
Compared to chin implants, the recovery period for a sliding genioplasty is more extensive. You should expect:
- To wear a compression garment for 4-6 weeks
- Some temporary bruising and swelling
- Some numbness of the lower lip and chin due to irritation of the nerves in that area
- To avoid vigorous activity for 4-6 weeks
2. Chin Implants
If you are looking for overall balance to your features, a chin implant is a great choice for a natural-looking solution. This procedure is often paired with another surgery including a rhinoplasty or neck liposuction for enhanced results.
How is it performed?
During a chin implant procedure, an incision is made underneath the chin and a pocket is created in which to place the implant.
Once the customized implant has been positioned, the pocket is closed using fine sutures.
Who is a candidate for this chin surgery?
The implant approach isn’t as versatile as the genioplasty technique and is usually only suitable for patients with an under projected or receding chin.
What are the risks involved with this face surgery?
The risks of chin implant surgery are slight and very similar to other types of cosmetic surgeries including:
- Risk of infection
- The implant might move and require corrective surgery
- In the long-term, if the implant moves, it may cause erosion of the bone and damage to the dental roots
- Blood clots can form in the chin
What is the recovery period?
The chin implant has a shorter recovery period than the sliding genioplasty. You should expect:
- Slight swelling & bruising which should subside after 7 days
- The stitches to be removed in 5 days after the surgery
- To be able to return to work and your normal routine within 5-7 days.
Book a Consultation
If you are wondering which type of chin surgery approach is right for you, it is best to seek the advice of an experienced and knowledgeable plastic surgeon.
During an in-depth consultation, they can assess your aesthetic goals, medical history and appearance to help determine the best and safest option for you.
Call today
To find out more about the costs and benefits of our procedures, including face and general surgery, contact our private Kelowna hospital today at 250-868-9799 or fill in the online contact form.
