Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)

Chin surgery or genioplasty is more commonly known as chin repositioning. This surgical procedure is done to correct receding chins, chin misalignment or chin excess by either performing the surgery on the chin bone or by using an implant. Sometimes, chin surgery is recommended to a patient having nose surgery in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimise the perceived size of the nose. Sometimes, chin surgery is also recommended for functional improvement. Means it not only improves the appearance of the face but also helps in proper function of oral musculature like proper closing of lips in cases of short lower lip, forward shift of the tongue muscles by advancement genioplasty improves the airway space of the patient and therby helpful in correcting conditions like sleep apnoea and snoring.

What will it do?

Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to facial features by enhancing facial contours. For patients who feel that their chin is too small, either an implant is inserted or the chin bone is cut and move forward to enhance the size and shape of the chin. For patients who feel their chin is too large, surgery is performed on the bone to reshape and resize the chin.

Is it right for me?

Chin surgery is a highly individualised procedure and may not be suitable for everyone. Always talk to your Maxillofacial Surgeon before making a decision. Your surgeon will assess your condition and general health, and plan the treatment that is best suited to you.

Will I need anaesthesia?

Chin surgery can be performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation.

What are the potential risks and complications?

Modern surgery is generally safe but does have the potential for risks and complications to occur.

Some general risks and complications of surgery may include:

  • Bleeding from an operated site
  • Infection that may require treatment with antibiotics or further surgery in some cases
  • Allergic reaction to sutures, dressings or antiseptic solutions
  • The formation of a large blood clot (haematoma) beneath an incision site that may require drainage
  • Pain, bruising and swelling around the operated site(s)
  • Temporary or permanent areas of numbness
  • Difficulty talking or smiling for few days to week.
  • Movement of the implant, which will require further surgery
  • Rejection of implant
  • Slow healing, often related to smoking or diabetes
  • Short-term nausea following general anaesthesia and other risks related to anaesthesia
  • Further surgery to treat complications

Will I have scarring?

Scars are an inevitable part of any invasive surgery. But in case of genioplasty it is highly unlikely to occur because the procedure is done through a incision inside the mouth within you lower lip and just beneath the lower teeth and gums. Therefore, there will not be any incision or scar on your facial skin.