Our Summary

The research paper is about the role of the chin or “genium” in the planning of orthognathic surgery, which is surgery designed to correct conditions of the jaw and face related to structure, growth, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, malocclusion problems owing to skeletal disharmonies, or other orthodontic problems. The position and shape of the chin can significantly impact the look of the lower face, so restoring its normal form is a key part of this type of surgery.

The paper discusses different techniques used in chin surgery, known as genioplasty, which can involve either making the chin larger (augmentation) or smaller (reduction). It also examines things to consider in this process, such as maintaining stability, the need for osteosynthesis (a surgical procedure to stabilize and join the ends of fractured bones using mechanical devices), potential complications, and possible future developments in this field. The paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current practices and future directions in genioplasty.

FAQs

  1. What is the role of the genium/chin in orthognathic surgery planning?
  2. What are some contemporary techniques for genioplasty?
  3. What are the potential complications and considerations for genial surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about oral surgery is to follow all pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully. This can help ensure a successful surgery and smooth recovery process. It is important to avoid smoking, drinking alcohol, and taking certain medications that may interfere with the healing process. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene before and after surgery can help prevent infection and complications.

Suitable For

Patients who may be recommended for oral surgery include those with:

  1. Malocclusion or misalignment of the teeth
  2. Jaw deformities
  3. Facial asymmetry
  4. Genioplasty for aesthetic reasons such as chin augmentation or reduction
  5. Temporomandibular joint disorders
  6. Impacted teeth
  7. Cleft lip and palate
  8. Sleep apnea
  9. Oral pathology such as tumors or cysts.

Timeline

Before oral surgery:

  1. Initial consultation: The patient meets with the oral surgeon to discuss their concerns, medical history, and treatment options.
  2. Pre-operative evaluation: The patient undergoes a series of tests and examinations to ensure they are a suitable candidate for surgery.
  3. Treatment planning: The oral surgeon creates a customized treatment plan based on the patient’s needs and goals.
  4. Pre-surgical instructions: The patient receives instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including fasting and medication guidelines.

After oral surgery:

  1. Post-operative care: The patient is given detailed instructions on how to care for their mouth and manage pain following surgery.
  2. Recovery period: The patient will experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery, which gradually improves over time.
  3. Follow-up appointments: The patient will have several follow-up appointments with the oral surgeon to monitor their healing progress and address any concerns.
  4. Long-term results: The patient will eventually experience the full benefits of oral surgery, such as improved function, aesthetics, and overall quality of life.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about oral surgery may include:

  1. What specific procedure are you recommending for my genium/chin correction?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. How long is the recovery period, and what can I expect in terms of pain and swelling?
  4. Will I need to follow any specific post-operative care instructions?
  5. How long will the results of the surgery last, and are there any potential long-term effects?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or procedures that could achieve similar results?
  7. How many times have you performed this specific procedure, and what is your success rate?
  8. Will I need to have any follow-up appointments after the surgery?
  9. Can you provide me with before and after photos of patients who have undergone similar procedures?
  10. What are the costs associated with the surgery, and will my insurance cover any of the expenses?

Reference

Authors: Ramanathan M, Panneerselvam E, Parameswaran A, Kanno T. Journal: Oral Maxillofac Surg Clin North Am. 2023 Feb;35(1):97-114. doi: 10.1016/j.coms.2022.06.009. Epub 2022 Nov 3. PMID: 36336599