CHIN REDUCTION SURGERY

Why Consider Chin Reduction Surgery?

There are several reasons why someone may choose to have chin reduction surgery. A common reason is to address a chin that appears more prominent than desired.

Chin reduction surgery can also be used to correct congenital conditions or injuries affecting the chin. In some cases, it may be performed alongside other procedures such as rhinoplasty.

During the consultation, a 3D camera is used to take your photograph, and digital modelling can help illustrate potential surgical outcomes. Custom implants can be ordered based on your individual anatomy, and you will be shown before-and-after photos of previous patients to help understand the possible results.

Chin implants may also be used to address congenital issues like a weak or recessed chin, or as part of a combined treatment plan with procedures such as a facelift, neck lift, or rhinoplasty.

The Procedure

Chin reduction surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between one to two hours, depending on the extent of the correction required.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision either inside the mouth (intraoral approach) or beneath the chin (submental approach). Through this incision, a portion of the chin bone is carefully removed or reshaped using surgical instruments. The remaining bone may be shaped to achieve the appropriate reduction in size and projection.

Once the bone has been modified, the incision is closed with sutures. In some cases, a bandage or compression garment may be applied around the chin to help reduce swelling and support healing.

The surgical approach and techniques used will be discussed during your consultation to ensure they are tailored to your individual anatomy and needs.

Recovery

After chin reduction surgery, patients can expect some swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the chin and jaw area. These symptoms typically improve within the first few weeks.

• Initial Recovery: Most patients are advised to rest and avoid strenuous activities for about two to four weeks following surgery.
• Diet: A soft diet may be recommended initially to minimize movement of the jaw and help with healing.
• Pain Management: Pain or discomfort can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter medications.
• Wound Care: If an incision was made inside the mouth, maintaining good oral hygiene is important to reduce the risk of infection. Any external incisions should be kept clean and dry.
• Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing and remove sutures if necessary.
  

Full recovery and the final appearance may take several months as swelling subsides, and tissues settle.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, chin reduction surgery carries potential risks. These may include, but are not limited to:

• Infection
• Bleeding or hematoma
• Swelling and bruising
• Numbness or altered sensation in the chin or lower lip, which may be temporary or permanent
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic outcome requiring revision surgery
• Asymmetry or irregularities in the chin shape
• Scarring (if an external incision is made)
• Complications related to anesthesia

It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon during your consultation to understand how they may apply to your individual circumstances.