From Sad Face to Normal: My Journey with Genioplasty

My Surgical History: Addressing Earlier Facial Proportions

I had a major concern with my protruding upper jaw, which was corrected in June 2022. Five months later, in November 2022, I returned to the same doctor for genioplasty. This time, it wasn't a major issue but rather a feeling that my face wasn't proportionate. I simply felt that I needed a bit more enhancement.

The Origin of My Concern

Before correcting my upper jaw protrusion, I often tried to close my mouth. Because my upper jaw was protruded, I didn't have enough room for my upper lip to cover my mouth, so I frequently pulled my lower lip up. This habit developed over the years, making my face look perpetually sad, as my upper lip was pulled upward, creating a sad smiley expression.

Even after the initial jaw correction, the problem persisted. My face still looked a bit sad, and I didn't achieve the handsome look I had hoped for. While I know expecting a dramatic transformation might be too much, I had hoped that the surgery would add a bonus to my appearance.

Initial Decision on Genioplasty

During my first procedure, my doctor suggested genioplasty. However, considering the cost, I decided it wasn't necessary at that time. My primary concern was correcting the protrusion and reducing teeth visibility, which the upper jaw surgery addressed. Although genioplasty could enhance my appearance further, I couldn't justify the additional procedure at that point.

A Confident Decision for Genioplasty

As mentioned earlier, I went to the doctor four months after my previous surgery. This time, I wasn't scared or confused because I was familiar with the process and knew the downtime would be shorter. Additionally, the cost was around 40,000 INR less than the previous surgery, which I felt was manageable.

Consulting with the Doctor

I met the doctor, and although he didn't remember me, he quickly understood what procedures I had undergone by looking at my records. After the usual CT scan, the doctor suggested improving my chin by making it more downward and slightly broader for a more manly look. I asked if he could also make the chin a bit more forward.

He cautioned that making it too forward would look unnatural, but agreed to move it slightly forward and downward. I agreed with his plan. However, I began to worry if I had made the right decision. Should I have insisted on my suggestion or simply trusted the doctor's expertise? These thoughts kept spinning in my head.

Surgery Fees

This surgery was performed in the year 2022. Fees may be subject to change based on your preferred hospital location and the present circumstances.

TOTAL AMOUNT: 186203 (ONE LAKHS AND EIGHTY SIX THOUSAND TWO HUNDRED AND THREE RUPEES ONLY)

Preparing for Surgery

On the surgery day, I went in prepared, having fasted for eight hours. The doctor and I revisited our previous discussion, and he convinced me of his approach. Ultimately, he left the final decision to me, but I trusted his expertise.

I told him my primary goal: to correct my sad-looking lips and achieve a cute, good smile. He assured me that the procedure would also reduce my bulky lower lip, which was an added benefit.

While everything sounded good, I was still anxious about the post-surgery results. Since this was my second surgery with the same doctor, he also mentioned that he would remove the titanium plates and screws from my previous surgery, as my jaw had healed and filled the gaps. I was happy to hear this.

Before genioplasty

After genioplasty

Detailed Technical Discharge Summary Report

The following details consist of the technical aspects, including the diagnosis of a broad chin, the medical history of LeFort I superior impaction surgery, clinical findings, the genioplasty procedure performed with specific augmentations, treatment administered, hospital course, and discharge instructions.

Diagnosis:

• Primary Diagnosis: Broad Chin

Medical History:

• History of Present Illness: The patient previously underwent LeFort I superior impaction surgery in June 2022.

Clinical Examination:

• Findings: The patient presented with a broad chin.

Procedures:

• Surgical Procedure: Genioplasty performed under general anesthesia, involving:
  • Horizontal augmentation by 7mm
  • Vertical augmentation by 8mm

Treatment Given:

• Genioplasty: The surgery included horizontal augmentation of the chin by 7mm and vertical augmentation by 8mm, performed under general anesthesia.

Course in Hospital:

• Consultations: The patient was seen by consultants.
• Medications: Intravenous antibiotics were administered.
• Surgical Details: Genioplasty was performed with horizontal augmentation by 7mm and vertical augmentation by 8mm.
• Recovery: No complications were reported during the hospital stay.

Discharge Instructions:

• Wound Care: Keep the surgical site clean.
• Follow-up: Review after 5 days.

CT Scan - Before

CT Scan - After

Post-Surgery Experience

The doctor completed the surgery, and this time, I had no bystanders, as no one was available. Being familiar with the place, I felt comfortable proceeding on my own, with the nurses taking care of me.

The Happy Moment

After the surgery, I felt very happy. Even before looking at myself, the assistant lady doctor, who usually speaks very little, said, "Now you look good." This was a significant compliment, as I hadn't received such feedback after my first surgery, which was only intended to make me look normal.

Hospital Stay

After the surgery, I was given juices, but this time the food was partially chewable. I experienced the same issue of hearing discomfort as my first surgery and only half-recognized the taste of food while eating. Fortunately, there was no swelling during the first two days.

I requested an early discharge, so on day two, I was discharged and provided with IVs for two days. After that, I was given tablets instead of IVs.

Post-Discharge Concerns

After my discharge, the major issue I faced was swelling. Due to the swelling, my chin looked excessively extended, which made me fear that this might be my permanent appearance. However, the doctor reassured me that this was expected.

Another concern was whether my chin was balanced and symmetrical on both sides. I planned to ask the doctor about this during my follow-up consultation.

Initially, I had some difficulty speaking, but it improved significantly after a day or two, even though I felt a bit misaligned.

Follow-Up Consultation

During the follow-up consultation, I mentioned to the doctor that I felt a bit misaligned. She examined me from different angles and mentioned that she could hardly notice it, attributing it to swelling. She advised me to wait and see how it progressed.

My Advice

Based on my experience, I advise anyone undergoing this jaw procedure to avoid turning their head and body while sleeping immediately after surgery. The screws and plates need time to solidify, so it's best to wait for a week or two before moving your head. Sleeping in a slanted posture can help prevent unintended movements that may affect the surgery's outcome.

Unexpected Nosebleed

Ten days after my surgery, while returning home from a function, I suddenly experienced a nosebleed. Initially, I dismissed it as normal and hoped it would stop on its own. However, as the bleeding persisted and worsened throughout the night, I became increasingly concerned about its severity. Recognizing the need for urgent medical attention, I promptly went to the hospital.

Upon arrival, the doctor administered anti-bleeding IVs, which helped reduce the bleeding after a few hours but did not completely stop it. Due to my condition, the doctor advised against going home that day. Instead, I received medications and had my nose fully packed, causing discomfort and forcing me to breathe only through my mouth.

As I prepared to leave the hospital, I unexpectedly fainted. Fortunately, hospital staff caught me before I fell, preventing a serious injury. Following this incident, I was kept under observation for a few more hours at no additional cost. This experience highlighted the importance of seeking immediate medical attention rather than delaying, as ignoring symptoms could lead to serious complications.

Seek Immediate Support When in Doubt

It's crucial to seek immediate medical support when in doubt. If you can't reach someone, visit the nearest general doctor promptly.

Embracing a Joyful Transformation

Despite facing challenges along the way, including unexpected post-surgery issues, I persevered. After a month, the swelling finally subsided, and I'm now delighted with my appearance. The positive feedback I've received from others has truly affirmed that the journey was worth it.