Chin Augmentation 101: Basics
Chin augmentation surgery can be performed in multiple ways. A sliding genioplasty is typically performed by an oral surgeon and involves cutting the bone to reposition the chin. The more common alternative is a silicone chin implant and in this article, we will specifically be discussing recovery from a chin implant.
How is a Chin Implant Performed?
A chin implant involves an incision either inside the mouth or under the chin. The surgery can be performed with the patient fully asleep or using just local anesthesia and some relaxation medication. The experience would be most similar to a wisdom tooth removal. The numbing process definitely has some discomfort and during the procedure, you will feel a pretty good amount of pressure but won’t experience pain. If your incision is inside your mouth, the stitches will dissolve on their own as you use a prescribed mouth rinse. Otherwise, you will use ointment and stitches will be removed around the 5th day.
Chin Implant Pain
Right after the surgery, you will still be numb; however, since the local anesthetic doesn’t numb your bone you will feel immediate soreness. You can expect to feel this for the first 2-to 3 days and will likely need a narcotic pain medication over this time period. While you are swollen, the chin will feel tight. The tight feeling will last for about 1 week and the majority of the swelling lasts one month. Finally, many patients experience temporary numbness. This can be present anywhere from 1-2 weeks to months depending on how much the implant is stretching the nerve.
Sillicone Implant Incision
The patient is wrapped with padded tape for a period of five days. You will not want to get this wet. The bandage does not significantly improve swelling but helps maintain the implant in a stable position for the initial 5 days. An incision inside the mouth is generally advised against secondary to a higher infection complication rate so I place it under your chin. It fades well and leads to MUCH fewer complications. After the tape is removed, ointment and scar creams can be applied to the incision as per your surgeon’s advice.
Chin Implant Recovery Tips
The overall pain should only last 2-3 days. If it is significantly worse on one side, speak with your surgeon to ensure the implant isn’t impinging on the nerve or stretching muscle.
Avoid moving your lower lip and even using a straw for the first few weeks. Talk without moving your lower lip.
It takes about one month for the swelling to go down. It will take 3 months for you to get used to the change. The transformation can look great so be patient! Check out our before and after gallery here.
