The main complaints constitute a jaw line that is either too prominent or recessive. When this region of the face is considered to be too big or small, it poses a problem for the individual and the best option is to have it surgically altered. The surgical procedures of mentoplasty are designed to alter the appearance of the chin so as to achieve a more balanced look for the entire face.
Each person has his or her own preference when it comes to what an attractive face is supposed to look like. Regardless of these different preferences, there is a certain standard regarding the ideal profile that is determined by the angle or contour of the chin region. Women are expected to have a softer alignment as men prefer more of a geometrically sound jaw line. The difference between the chin of a man and that of a woman is considered to be quite distinct and there are standards that surgeons feel are the norm.
Just like with any other elective surgical procedure, it is important to weigh the options and take time to understand what the entire process entails. The chin plastic surgery can be performed under general anesthesia or intravenous anesthesia depending on what the doctor recommends or what the patient is more comfortable with. The surgery typically begins by creating an incision within the mouth of the patient. This internal incision is essential because it prevents the appearance of a visible wound or scar on the external region of the mouth. Although it is possible to do the incision outside the mouth, the internal one is preferred so that the individual can go through the healing process discreetly. Chin surgery is often accompanied by other procedures such as nose surgery but it is also done on its own. Other people incorporate mentoplasty as a component of full facial surgery. It is generally believed that a chin surgery needs to be done alongside nose surgery because this helps to balance the face and make it proportional.
For people who have double chins, it is usually necessary for them to undergo liposuction that will get rid of the excessive fat that forms as a second chin. In this instance, an external incision will have to be made. On average, a mentoplasty can last anything from as little as half an hour to several hours and this is determined by the extent of the surgery. Aside from taking out any excess fat from the chin, implants are used to achieve the desired sculpted effect. Silicon and geotex are the implants that are commonly used and they are popular for their ability to significantly recontour the region of the chin.
Even with the best implant available, the surgeon still has to ensure that he or she places it at the front of what is known as the mandible. Here, the implant is supposed to be deeply inserted in a careful way. The implant is inserted in the soft tissue of the chin because this is the point at which the altered and projected contour of the chin can be effectively achieved. It is important to note that every person has a unique mandible that goes a long way in determining which implant will be most ideal for the surgical procedure. In most cases, there is no need for screws at any pint of the surgery or recovery process. The prosthetic implants are kept firm and solid within a protective layer of the chin that is fibrous by nature. Regardless of the type of procedure undertaken, sutures that are dissoluble are utilized and this means that there will be no visible scars that the patient should worry about. Even if the surgeon decides to create an external insertion on the chin, the scar will still not be apparent or visible. The procedure is generally done on an outpatient basis but this varies according to the individuals. Some patients may need to stay in hospital for a few days and this is not a cause for alarm. The options for anesthesia are local and general but general anesthesia is the preferred option. The results can basically be described as instantaneous because the changes in the appearance of the contour are visible as soon as the surgery is completed. The transformation can be seen but any enhancement that is present can be seen clearly for about 2 months following the mentoplasty.
Mentoplasty is a viable solution for people who seek solutions to their chin reconstruction requirements. For anyone who considers undergoing the procedure, it is important to locate a surgeon who is committed to making his or her patients as comfortable as possible right from consultation to the point at which the chin plastic surgery is finally carried out. This is a serious consideration even as someone makes the decision to undergo surgery as a step towards improving their appearance.
Before going in for a mentoplasty, the patient should find plastic surgeon and inform him about his or her expectations. A good doctor should be willing to provide the patient with a range of testimonials from previous patients. This inspires confidence and the surgeon can go one step further by providing before and after pictures of past patients. During the consultation with the doctor, the overall health of the patient will be established so as to ascertain whether or not the individual qualifies for a surgical procedure. If overall health is good, the doctor will proceed to examine the patient's face critically so as to get a good grasp of the individual facial structure. Facial structure guides the doctor in terms of what technique or procedure is appropriate. This is the opportune time during which the patient can discuss his or her fears and concerns. Chin surgery is a great solution for anyone who is uncomfortable with the appearance of his or her chin and it helps people feel younger and more attractive. It helps to create a feeling of self confidence that the individual probably lacks and this is why many people opt for this kind of cosmetic surgery. It is, however, not a solution to every problem and while it is great to look attractive, the person should embrace his or her improved appearance and couple it with a determination to tackle life head on regardless of what imperfections one might have.
The doctor should be more than willing to discuss the procedure in depth and provide the patient with essential information regarding the surgery and recovery process. This enables the individual to make an informed decision regarding the mentoplasty. The main types of mentoplasty or chin surgery involve changing the shape of the chin and reducing the size of the chin. Changing the shape of the chin involves changing the position of a section of the bone or by augmenting the chin with the use of an implant. The size of the chin is reduced by reducing the size of the bone. The dressings that are placed on the patient are typically left on for 2 to 3 days. Any stitches that are present are gotten rid of after a period of a week. Bed rest is recommended for at least two days. The recovery process is generally slow but the results are worth any sacrifice that has to be made. The patient can expect to have a sore chin for some time. If the pain is deemed unbearable, pain medication may be prescribed.
Owing to the tenderness of the chin, it is advisable to only consume food in the form of liquids or mashed food items for a considerable amount of time. Some patients may be surprised to feel like their chain is stretching out of place but in reality this is just a feeling as opposed to as an actual physical occurrence. This uncomfortable feeling does not usually last for more than a work. Patients can expect to be back on their feet after a week but it will still take quite a bit of time before recovery is complete. As the recovery process goes on, it will take time for the patients to be totally active in whatever tasks they wish to perform. The individual should make every effort to prevent any contact that may injure or interfere with the area that is healing. It might be unnerving to endure a swollen and disfigured face during the initial stages of the surgery but it is important to maintain a positive attitude by remembering why the mentoplasty was carried out in the first place. Improved self esteem and an aesthetically pleasing profile are the
Before and After Photos
By Dr. Jeffrey A. Fialkov
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