Sliding Gonioplasty or Chin Advancement

Sliding Genioplasty also called "Chin Advancement" is a plastic surgery procedure designed to change the shape of the chin to harmonize with the other facial features.

This procedure is performed from an incision inside the mouth below the lower lip. The sliding genioplasty is used in more severe cases or in cases where the chin needs to be lengthened or moved backward. The actual bony chin portion of the jaw is then cut and advanced or moved back. This segment is then secured with a tiny bone screw or wire.

Duration of the operation:

Normally 1 hour, though can take up to 3 hours if other procedures are also carried out at the same time.

Post operative care:

You will be advised to stay on a soft diet and to rinse frequently the operative site with saline solution until the first postoperative visit. You may feel some discomfort that soreness which will be controlled with pain killers.

Recovery period:

You may return to normal activities within 5-10 days and you might have to stick to a liquid or soft diet for at least a day or two.

Possible risk and complications:

Possible complications of chin advancement are over reduction, under reduction, nerve damage, necrosis, poor cosmetic outcomes, reaction or rejection of implants or bone filler, hematoma, infection, permanent change in sensation as with pain or tenderness, step down problems, gum recession, tooth root exposer, tooth loss, chin ptosis, blood clots, non union between the bone segments or screw and or plate misplacement. You should discuss all the risks with your cosmetic surgeon.

Anesthesia use:

General or local anesthesia, depending on the procedure

Hospital admission:

It depends on your preferences as well as your surgeon’s. Chin advancement can be performed on an out patient basis, in the hospital, or in an ambulatory surgical suite.

Preparation before Surgery

• Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
• Blood and urine samples will be collected for routine preoperative laboratory tests.
• Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
• You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
• Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.