Chin Implant Postoperative Instructions FAQ
1) What do I look like when I wake up from surgery?
Following the procedure, you will have a dressing that adheres to the chin to prevent swelling and minimize bruising. You may have some bruising around the chin area, however, this typically is more pronounced 24-48 hours after the procedure.
2) Can I do anything to prevent bruising?
Most patents will have a little bruising.
3) What does it feel like when I wake up from surgery?
Your chin dressing may feel a little tight however patients tell us there is very little discomfort. We will make sure you are not nauseated or queasy. Our nurses will be right there with you as you wake up from surgery to give you special attention.
4) Tell me more about the sutures.
Fine little sutures are under the dressing. We ask you to keep your chin dressing dry and intact for three or four days. At that time you will come to the office for dressing and suture removal. After sutures are removed, steristrips are applied that must be kept dry for four days.
5) Will I be able to eat?
Yes! Patients tell us they may have a dull ache, however the pain medication should keep you comfortable.
6) Will I need any special prescriptions following surgery?
Yes. Postoperative prescriptions are provided well in advance of surgery day so you arrive home completely prepared. Postoperative prescriptions and over-the-counter medications for chin implant patients include the following
A) An antibiotic to take after surgery to prevent infection.
B) Pain medication to minimize any discomfort following surgery.
C) Vitamin C 3000 mg with food daily for one week following surgery to promote healing.
7) When do I start taking these prescriptions?
Patients take their pain medication as needed. The other medications all begin on the day following the procedure.
8) Are there any dietary restrictions following surgery?
No. Patients can eat whatever they want. Advance your diet from liquids to soft food to solids as tolerated. Please drink as much fluid as you can which will help you from becoming dehydrated.
9) When can I shower?
You may shower on postoperative day three or four following surgery – the day you come to the office for suture removal. That morning it is ok to get the dressing wet. After the chin sutures are removed, we will place little steri-strip tapes that must remain dry and in place for four more days. You may bathe and wash your hair in the sink any time following the procedure.
10) When is my first postoperative appointment?
You will be asked to come to the office the on the third or fourth day following chin implant surgery. Most patients describe removal of chin sutures as discomfort rather than pain. If you feel you have full range of motion of the head and neck, you will not need someone to drive you to this appointment.
11) Are there any instructions about regular daily activities?
Sleep with head of the bed elevated or use two to three pillows. Facial fullness, headache and disrupted sleep are very normal postoperative symptoms and will decrease as the healing process occurs. Absolutely no bending, lifting or straining. If you have little children, bend at the knees or sit on the floor and let them climb on to your lap.
12) When will I look normal?
Most of our patients tell us that they look “normal” at about two weeks. You will still notice swelling and your final result is still a ways off. However, at two weeks you know you are well on the way to recovery.
13) How long does healing take?
Healing from chin implant to evaluate the final result takes one full year. However, after three months, most patients have about 90% of their final result.