Sliding Genioplasty
SLIDING GENIOPLASTY Sliding genioplasty is a surgical procedure specifically designed to modify the position and shape of the chin by repositioning a section of the lower jawbone (mandible). It’s a versatile procedure that can address various chin concerns, including retrusion (recessed chin), protrusion (prominent chin), vertical height discrepancies, and asymmetry. Here’s an overview of the sliding genioplasty procedure: PREOPERATIVE ASSESSMENT CONSULTATION Patients meet with the surgeon to discuss the desired outcome and the feasibility of the procedure. IMAGING X-rays or 3D CT scan imaging techniques are used to plan the surgery by assessing the bone structure and the degree of chin augmentation or reduction needed. PRE-OPERATIVE PHOTOGRAPHS Purpose: They are taken from multiple angles to provide a clear understanding of the patient’s current anatomy and discuss their aesthetic concerns. Comparison: These photos are used as a baseline to compare with post-operative results. PRE-OPERATIVE PREPARATION You may be asked to undergo certain lab tests as preparation for surgery. Medications might be adjusted, and certain drugs, like aspirin, and certain herbal medications and health supplements may be stopped to reduce the risk of bleeding. Smoking should be stopped well in advance of the surgery as it can impair healing. Instructions will be given regarding eating and drinking on the day of the surgery. ANAESTHESIA General Anaesthesia: The procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep during the surgery. SURGICAL PROCEDURE INCISION The procedure is typically performed intraorally, meaning the incision is made inside the mouth along the lower gum, which avoids visible external scars. BONE CUT A horizontal osteotomy (bone cut) is made across the chin region of the mandible. This allows Dr Sandeep to mobilize the lower portion of the chin. REPOSITIONING Depending on the desired outcome, the mobilized segment of the chin can be: Moved forward (for a recessed chin). Moved backward (for a protruding chin). Moved upward or downward to adjust vertical height. Rotated to correct asymmetry. FIXATION Once the bone segment is in the desired position, it’s secured using titanium plates and screws. CLOSURE The intraoral incision is then sutured closed with sutures which dissolve over the next few weeks and do not need removal. RECOVERY There will be some swelling, bruising, and discomfort after the surgery. A chin bandage may be applied to reduce the swelling. Cold compresses is recommended for a few days to help reduce swelling. Pain medication and antibiotics may be prescribed. It’s essential to maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection at the surgical site. Our team will prescribe antiseptic mouth wash to help prevent infection. It’s advised to keep the head elevated and avoid vigorous physical activity for a few days after surgery. Most clients can return to work within a week, but strenuous activities should be avoided for several weeks. If the incision was made inside the mouth, a soft diet might be recommended for a few days. FOLLOW-UP Dr Sandeep will schedule follow-up visits to monitor the healing process and ensure the healing of tissues and the aesthetic results are as planned. As a client, you can further mitigate surgical risks by strictly adhering to pre-surgery and post-surgery guidelines. It’s also vital to attend all subsequent check-ups to monitor healing and promptly discuss any issues. Dr Sandeep and his team often discuss the various pros and cons of different surgical procedures with their clients. When it comes to sliding genioplasty, the team acknowledges that there are both advantages and disadvantages to consider. They highlight the following advantages and disadvantages. ADVANTAGES OF SLIDING GENIOPLASTY HARMONIOUS FACIAL PROPORTIONS Sliding genioplasty allows for precise modifications to the chin’s position, leading to improved facial balance and aesthetics. VERSATILITY The procedure can either advance or retract the chin, making it versatile for various aesthetic needs. NATURAL RESULTS Since the client’s own bone is repositioned, the results tend to look and feel natural. PERMANENT The results of a sliding genioplasty are typically permanent. FUNCTIONAL IMPROVEMENTS In some instances, sliding genioplasty may help open the airway, potentially improving issues like sleep apnoea. BOOSTED SELF-CONFIDENCE With an enhanced facial profile, many clients experience a significant boost in self-confidence and self-esteem. SOCIAL AND PROFESSIONAL GAINS A more balanced and attractive facial appearance can positively affect social interactions and even open doors professionally. PERSONALISED RESULTS The procedure can be tailored to meet the unique anatomical and aesthetic needs of the individual client, ensuring that the results align with their goals. BONE PRESERVATION Unlike implant-based methods, sliding genioplasty utilises the client’s own bone, reducing the risks of rejection or infection. STABILITY Because the bone is fixed in its new position, the results are generally stable over the long term. REDUCED SCARRING The incisions are usually made inside the mouth, resulting in no visible scars. DISADVANTAGES OF SLIDING GENIOPLASTY SURGICAL RISKS Like any surgical procedure, sliding genioplasty comes with the general risks of anaesthesia, infection, and bleeding. LONGER RECOVERY TIME Compared to less invasive options like chin implants, sliding genioplasty usually requires a longer period of recovery. COMPLEXITY Sliding genioplasty is a technically demanding procedure that requires a skilled surgeon like Dr Sandeep to ensure that the bone heals in the proper alignment. COST The procedure can be quite expensive, especially when factoring in hospital stays and any additional treatments that may be needed. LIMITATIONS IN AESTHETIC OUTCOMES While sliding genioplasty is versatile, it may not be suitable for all types of chin augmentations. The range of achievable aesthetic outcomes may be limited based on the client’s existing anatomy. PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT As with any cosmetic procedure, there’s a psychological aspect to consider. Clients must have realistic expectations and be prepared for the emotional impact of undergoing surgery and the recovery process. POTENTIAL RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS OF SLIDING GENIOPLASTY Like all surgical procedures, sliding genioplasty comes with potential risks and complications. Here are some of the most common and significant ones: Infection: As with any surgical procedure, there’s a risk of infection at the surgical site. Proper post-operative care and antibiotics can help minimize this risk. Nerve Damage:
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