GENIOPLASTY
Genioplasty is a surgical procedure that alters the shape or size of the chin. This procedure is performed for cosmetic purposes to improve facial appearance or for functional purposes to correct breathing problems (sleep apnea, snoring, etc.).
What are the different types of chin surgery (genioplasty)?
Chin augmentation with implants
This procedure involves inserting a silicone implant into the chin to improve its projection and shape.
Recoil genioplasty
Conversely, this technique involves cutting the bone, removing a piece and reattaching it in order to reduce the size of the chin and possibly change its orientation.
Advancement genioplasty
This involves surgically moving the chin bone forward to correct a receding or recessed chin . The surgeon will cut the chin bone and move it forward using special titanium plates and screws.
Remodeling genioplasty
The surgeon will reshape the chin bone (without adding an implant). He will sculpt the bone to achieve the desired shape.
Suspension genioplasty
This technique corrects a sagging chin by pulling on the soft tissue ( lift ) but without making any changes to the bone. This repositions the chin. This operation is reserved for people of a certain age who have loose skin.
The choice of technique will depend on the patient’s aesthetic or functional objectives.
Why have genioplasty?
Aesthetic improvement
Genioplasty is performed for aesthetic purposes to improve the balance and harmony of the face. It is performed to correct a prominent chin , a receding chin , an asymmetrical chin , or any other aspect deemed unsightly by the patient.
Correction of facial imbalances
The operation is performed to correct facial imbalances that result from congenital problems , injuries , or asymmetrical growth.
Treatment of functional problems
Genioplasty is sometimes recommended to resolve functional problems related to the jaw, tension on the facial skin, or breathing. For example, it is performed to improve breathing (sleep apnea). However, the functional impact is much less significant than with a lower jaw advancement operation .
Is genioplasty painful?
Pain during surgery
Genioplasty is performed under general or local anesthesia. There is no pain during the operation.
Postoperative Pain
After genioplasty, it is normal to experience some pain, pressure, and warmth in the lower face. Pain relievers prescribed by the surgeon help manage the pain.
Swelling and Bruising
There is swelling and bruising after genioplasty. This will contribute to discomfort. Local cold and anti-inflammatory medications help reduce swelling.
Duration of pain
The pain gradually decreases and should normally disappear completely after 3 weeks.
When to have genioplasty?
Facial maturity
It is recommended to wait until facial growth is complete before undergoing genioplasty. This usually coincides with late adolescence.
Health status
The patient must be in good physical and mental health. Health problems can increase the risks associated with surgery and recovery.
Emotional stability
The decision to undergo genioplasty should be made with a stable emotional attitude. Emotional fluctuations affect the perception of results and recovery.
Planning
Choose a quiet time when you won’t be stressed.
Availability
You should allow time for pre-operative consultations, surgery, and recovery. You should follow your surgeon’s recommendations.
Season
It is better to have surgery in winter, when you have more time and fewer outings.
What are the risks of genioplasty?
Bleeding
If it is too heavy, the surgeon will perform another operation.
Infections
Infections are rare but the risk exists.
Anesthetic Reactions
Adverse reactions to anesthesia are possible.
Hematomas and swelling
There are almost always hematomas (accumulation of blood) and swelling of the lower face.
Healing problems
Some people have poor healing.
Changes in sensation
Sensation of numbness or tingling.
Asymmetry
Risk of chin asymmetry after complete healing.
Aesthetic dissatisfaction
Post-operative disappointment.
What are the steps of genioplasty?
Initial consultation
The process begins with a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. The patient discusses their aesthetic or functional concerns and expresses their expectations for genioplasty. The surgeon examines the chin structure, takes photographs, and assesses the feasibility of the procedure.
Simulation
A simulation can be performed to simulate the outcome and help the patient visualize the desired result. Perform a rhinoplasty simulation.
Preparation for the intervention
The patient discusses potential risks and expectations and signs an informed consent form. They then undergo medical examinations to assess their overall health and suitability for surgery.
Day of the intervention
Anesthesia
Before the procedure, the patient is anesthetized. The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia.
Incisions
The surgeon makes the necessary incisions (inside the mouth).
Bone cutting
The surgeon cuts the bone and then places titanium plates and screws to reposition the chin.
Sutures
The surgeon closes the incisions with sutures.
Post-operative period
The patient is monitored during the postoperative period to ensure normal recovery. Medications, including pain relievers and antibiotics, are often prescribed to manage pain and prevent infection. The surgeon provides detailed instructions on how to care for the mouth after surgery, including avoiding certain activities and taking precautions to minimize infection.
Follow-up
The patient has regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon to assess healing, monitor progress, and possibly remove plates and screws. Full recovery may take several months.
What are the benefits of ultrasonic genioplasty?
Ultrasonic genioplasty is a recent approach to genioplasty that uses ultrasonic tools that operate by piezoelectricity to perform the steps of bone cutting, abrasion, etc.
This technique has many advantages:
Preservation of structures
The use of ultrasound allows for a gentler and more precise approach, which preserves soft tissues (nerves, blood vessels, skin).
Less bleeding
Ultrasonic instruments reduce bleeding during surgery. This contributes to faster recovery and less postoperative bruising.
More precise sculpture
Ultrasonic tools sculpt bone with great precision and facilitate subtle and specific modifications.
Less invasive technique
Ultrasonic genioplasty is less invasive than traditional techniques, resulting in faster recovery and reduced postoperative swelling.
What scars are left by genioplasty?
The scars are all inside the mouth, except for facelifts. Indeed, the surgeon will make an incision at the gum level to reach the bone and perform the operation. For a facelift, there will be scars behind the ear and under the chin. They are very discreet.