Need some info??

[streetdoctor]

1. What is Chin Augmentation?
2. What are the chin implants made from?
3. What does a typical Chin augmentation consultation entail?
4. How is Chin augmentation performed?
5. What are the different techniques in performing a Chin augmentation?
6.What should I expect post-operatively?
7. When will the sutures be taken out and does this hurt?
8. Will there be scarring? If so where will the scars be located?
9. Is there a lot of swelling involved with a chin augmentation?
10. How long is the "down time" for this procedure; how long should I expect to be out of work?
11. When will I be able to see the results?
12. What are the risks of chin augmentation?
13. What is Arnica montana or Bromelain, I have heard that these homeopathics reduce swelling and bruising? Which is the best kind to take?
14. How long do chin implants last?

[stillbachelor]

What is Chin Augmentation surgery for?

Originally chin implants were used for reconstruction for birth defects and trauma related incidents. Now, they are being utilized to enhance a person's chin or to create symmetry within the facial structure from a weak chin. With a chin implant, the face is transformed into a more aesthetically pleasing shape.

[stillbachelor]

What are the chin implants made from?

They are commonly made from hard Silicone:

"As an implantable biomaterial it is most commonly used in the form of the dimethylsiloxane polymer which is a large molecule of repetitive units containing silicon, oxygen and methane, ((CH3)3SiO-[(CH3)2SiO]x-Si(CH3)3).

The extent of polymerization determines the viscosity of dimethylsiloxane and hence its physical state: liquid, gel or solid. Short, linear chains of polymethylsiloxane result in oils or gels. Heat and catalysts increase branch length and form solids. Silicone polymers are easily contaminated with heavy metals, low-chain-length polymers, and other impurities during the manufacturing process and their refinement requires specialized filtration and sterilization. Only Medical grade silicone is approved for implantation in the human body." Grand Rounds - Advanced Biomaterials

Although, many medical device companies are manufacturing newer types which are made from expanded polytetrafluoro- ethylen (ePTFE), rigid polyethylene, hydroxyapatite (processed coral; HA). The rigid polyethylene implants are usually screwed into place into the bones of the face to prevent shifting of the implant post-operatively. The (ePTFE) implants are designed to be porous so that the tissues can attach themselves to the implant to prevent shifting.

[stillbachelor]

What does a typical Chin augmentation consultation entail?

First off, your doctor will discuss your goals with you and he will explain what can be achieved realistically. The usual goal of the typical patient is to "correct" a lacking chin. Discuss with your surgeon the goals and general result you would like to achieve. It is all individual. Just like you!

Your doctor will take into account your facial dimensions and natural face shape. There are not too many types of chin implants but enough to go over with your surgeon. The placement as well as the size of the chin implants will be determined by you and your doctor. Don't be afraid to speak your mind during this time.

[stillbachelor]

How is Chin augmentation surgery performed?

The Chin augmentation operation is most frequently performed using Light Sleep Anesthesia or combined with other procedures, General Anesthesia. Light Sleep Anesthesia is the use of medicines to induce a state of relaxation and a light sleep. After your arrival additional medications are given intravenously which induce a profound state of relaxation. Patients usually sleep during the operation. Much of the time patients have very little memory of the operation itself. After this state is achieved then medicines are given to produce numbness of the surgical area.

This procedure takes from 1 to 1 and 1/2 hours to perform. It may take longer if you choose to have chin and cheek implants as well. Depending upon your facial structure the incisions will be placed as inconspicuously as possible. For chin implants the incision can either where the mouth gums and lip/facial skin meet of under the chin. The risk of infection is higher if an incision is placed within the mouth area. Although a strict post-operative oral hygiene regimen can decrease this risk.

[stillbachelor]

What are the different techniques in performing a Chin augmentation?

There may be surgeons who only wish to use a certain implant type or a certain incision. surgeons would give you a choice. As the updated techniques are less scarring than the previous ones. The doctor may school an oral approach where the only incisions are placed within the mouth area. No visible scar is made and the oral incisions heal much faster. However, oral techniques sometimes are plagued by a higher rate of infection. Especially in those with problems with plaque build up or poor dental hygiene.

There is also a procedure called a Genioplasty, also referred to as a "sliding genioplasty" or chin advancement surgery. This surgery is the use of a bone saw to trim a piece off the bottom of the chin and "sliding" it forward and then fastening it with titanium screws. Metal plates may also be used as well. Although a rarity, bone infection becomes a risk.

Additionally, there is the use of injectable Hydroxyapatite (HA, processed coral) paste. It should be performed over a course of a few months and the look is gradual and a long process. Some surgeons inject a lot of it at once but be advised that this is still a newer application for cosmetic reasons and reportedly the paste is still "moldable" for a few days. There is no osteoinduction (bone incorporation) as it is not porous but there are reports of absorption.

Check with your doctor on the preferred technique that he utilizes. He may very well prefer the traditional methods out of not being aware of the newer ones or he may very well offer only the newer ones, with the thought that the older techniques are "out of date". This subject varies with surgeon to surgeon.

[stillbachelor]

What should I expect post-operatively?

Although, there is normally no extensive pain related to chin implantation, pain medication is prescribed beforehand. Your surgeon may also prescribe pharmaceutical grade Arnica montana to reduce swelling and bruising. You may feel a degree of numbness that should disappear within 1-3 months. You may continue to wear a support brace while you sleep to allow your tissues and implant to heal in the desired position and prevent shifting in the first few weeks,

Don't be alarmed at the presence of bruising and swelling. The swelling will begin to disappear within the first 5-7 days. Many patients return to work with the help of camouflaging cosmetics at about 5 days post-op. The swelling resembles inflammation of wisdom teeth or their removal and sometimes this excuse is used at "the office". Although please realize that the swelling may be apparent for months and the defined, chiseled look that you so desire may not become evident for quite a while.

Things to be alarmed about that are not normal:

* Temperature elevation greater than 101 degrees
* Sudden swelling or sudden discoloration
* Hemorrhage
* Increasing redness and tenderness of the wound edges indicating infection
* Allergic reaction to drugs
* Shifting of the implant

[stillbachelor]

When will the sutures be taken out and does this hurt?

The sutures, if any, will be removed in approximately 3-5 days (sometimes 7-10). Your face will be swollen for the first few days - this is normal. The removal should not hurt extensively although your surgeon may feel the implant through your facial tissues and this may hurt a little. The swelling should very much dissipate after the first two weeks.

[stillbachelor]

Will there be scarring? If so where will the scars be located?

This depends on the incision choice by you and your surgeon. It is quite possible to have either one of these implants inserted with no visible scars whatsoever. Ask your doctor if he is familiar with the oral incision location and what he thinks about it.

[stillbachelor]

Is there a lot of swelling involved with a chin implant?

There will be some considerable swelling associated with the trauma to the tissues. Especially if there were screws involved. Bone trauma may hurt a little more than just tissue trauma so take this into account when you decide on the technique. Although, it is hardly enough pain to dissuade you from making an "incision decision". Please go into this surgery well informed because many re-operations or removals are due to patients not being able to handle the swelling at first. It can be quite overwhelming at first.