The chin correction is performed using intraoral approach
Chin deficiency that is corrected using osteotomy and bone implant is analyzed in lateral and frontal picture. In profile, the chin should be aligned to the philtrum (connection between the nose and upper lip), while in frontal picture, the lower third of the face (from the philtrum to the edge of the chin) should be equal to the remaining two thirds of the face. The chin can be smaller than the above-mentioned criteria which we refer to as microgenia, or it may be larger than the above-mentioned criteria which we refer to as macrogenia. The procedure that corrects microgenia is called augmentation genioplasty (mentoplasty), and procedure that corrects macrogenia is called reduction genioplasty (mentoplasty).
Who is a candidate for the chin correction?
Preoperative consultations are extremely important since during that visit you and your surgeon analyze your photos and the previously taken MSCT scan of the face to determine if there is bone disbalance and make a plan for the correction. If you are not satisfied with the size or shape of your chin, please consult us and find out which procedure would be the best to correct your condition.
Procedure
The procedure is performed via the so-called intraoral approach where the access incision is hidden inside the oral cavity in front of the front teeth of the lower jaw. If reduction genioplasty is performed, we have to trim a wedge from the chin bone and position the 1chin to the new place thus correcting its vertical and profile position. If augmentation genioplasty is performed, we have to insert a bone that is usually taken from the iliac crest. In both cases, we fixate the bone in the new position using mini titanium plates and screws that don not need removal. The procedure lasts approximately 90-120min and is performed under general anesthesia.
Recovery
After the chin correction surgery you will stay at the clinic for next 5 – 12 hours. Antibiotics and analgesics are usually prescribed after the surgery. We recommend liquid diet i.e. softer food that does not require much chewing. We also recommend that you sleep on your back with your head elevated to reduce the swelling. Due to the same reason, we recommend staying out of the sun and warmth, as well as avoiding warm food and drinks that evaporate to the face. Bandages are worn for 5-7 days. Stitches are removed after 7-14 days. After bandages are removed, there is a possibility of minimal swelling or bruising. All of the aforementioned side effects should resolve within 14 days.
Result
The result is visible immediately after the procedure.
At our clinic, we perform numerous jaw surgical procedures to harmonize the facial appearance so chin correction with an implant or a bone transplant is often performed with rhinoplasty, in order to harmonize the profile, the so-called prophiloplasty, and this procedure is also often combined with face lift surgery because people with a small chin often face early loosening of facial structures.
Disclaimer: Results of chin correction are individual, and can vary from one patient to another depending on the patient’s condition and their anatomical build.
