Introduction
The following is a list of general instructions for your care following your chin augmentation. Please read them carefully several times as most of your questions should be answered here. Carefully following these instructions should help you get the best results from your procedure.
Daily Care
Your dressing after surgery will remain on until the following morning. It is important to relax and keep your head elevated the night after surgery. Your dressing will be removed the morning after surgery. At that point we will review your care:
If your implant was placed intraorally:
- Please limit yourself to liquids for the first 24 hours and a soft diet for the first week after surgery. From there you should slowly advance your diet as tolerated.
- After each meal and before you go to bed you should rinse with either a rinse recommended by Dr. Hamilton or with an OTC mouth rinse.
If your implant was placed through a submental incision (under the chin):
- Tape will be applied over your incision. This tape should stay on for the first week following surgery. You may get it wet, but blot it dry afterwards. If it does fall off, you should clean the incision with hydrogen peroxide and Q-tips and then apply antibiotic ointment three times a day.
- A soft diet is indicated for the first week after surgery.
What to expect
Swelling
Swelling will vary patient-to-patient. Swelling may actually increase the first three to four days before subsiding. Most of your swelling should resolve over the first two to three weeks. Do expect, however, to have minor fluctuations in the remaining swelling over the course of the next two to three months. Things to do to minimize this swelling include keeping your head elevated as much as possible over the first two to three weeks, avoiding bending over or heavy lifting for the first three weeks, and avoiding prolonged sun exposure for the first two to three months.
Discoloration
Bruising will vary like swelling from person to person. Most bruising and discoloration should resolve over the first two weeks. Make up, with Dr. Hamilton’s permission, can be applied ten days to two weeks after surgery.
Numbness
Your jaw may be numb following surgery. This is normal and will subside over the coming weeks to months. Unusual sensations, pins and needles, and occasionally mild discomfort may occur as these nerves regenerate over time.
Depression
It is not uncommon for patients to go through a period of mild depression after cosmetic surgery. This typically occurs the second week after surgery while some of the swelling and bruising still persist and yet the patient is anxious to see a final result. Realize this is a temporary condition and things will improve. Focus on diligently following the wound care as well as other activities to help divert your mind.
Restrictions
- No strenuous exercise for at least two weeks.
- No heavy lifting for three weeks.
- Avoid hard chewing foods for two weeks.
- No contact sports for six weeks.
Finally
Please do not hesitate to ever contact our office.
Mark M. Hamilton, M.D., F.A.C.S.
317-210-4339 (Greenwood)
317-614-0639 (Carmel)