Many people who undergo facial feminization surgery or who feel that the current appearance of their chins makes them look too masculine can benefit tremendously from having chin reduction surgery performed. This has fast become one of the most popular forms of surgery that have been carried out by plastic surgeons over the past few years.
What is Chin Reduction Surgery?
The female chin is normally smoother and more refined than the male shin, which tends to be pointed and square in appearance. Chin reduction involves the re-shaping of a patient’s chin in order to smooth its contours and give it a more feminine look overall. Male and female patients who have had this procedure performed have noticed a dramatic improvement in their appearance, and it is a relatively easy procedure for surgeons to carry out. In some cases, it may be accompanied by chin shaving and/or the insertion of implants to fully meet a patient’s expectations.
Ways in Which Chin Reduction Feminizes the Face
When vertical chin reduction is performed, it reduces the length of a patient’s chin and prevents it from ‘jutting out’ from the rest of the face. In cases where this form of the procedure is done, some of the muscles surrounding the chin may need to be shortened in conjunction with the bone structure being shaved. In cases where horizontal chin reduction is done, the chin will appear narrower and rounder, which will make the patient’s face look more feminine overall. The tip of the chin will be re-shaped and excess bone removed. Surrounding soft tissue and muscles will then be molded accordingly as well.
How the Procedure is performed
The surgeon will administer a general anesthesia to the patient before performing the procedure. He will then make an incision inside the patient’s mouth to ensure that no scarring will be visible on the outside. Once this has been done, the chin will be shaved down a little at a time until the desired contour is achieved, and in some instances, the surgeon may remove the middle part of the chin bone to create a slightly pointier appearance. If required, an implant will be inserted to round or soften the appearance a little more, and once this has been done, the incision will be closed by means of dissolving sutures.
What to Expect with Recovery
After having chin reduction surgery, patients will usually spend the night in hospital. The surgeon will apply pressure bandages over the entire chin area to help prevent blood clots and excessive bruising from taking place, and these will be removed a day or two later. Patients will normally experience a little numbness and swelling at the site of the surgery, but these symptoms will usually clear within a maximum of 7-10 days at the most. If required, patients may request a prescription for pain medication to use during this time.
It is essential for patients to follow their surgeon’s post-operative care instructions, as it will help the recovery process tremendously. If you would like more information about this procedure, schedule an appointment with our surgeons today.