How Soon After Chin Implants Should I Do Facial Exercises?

In my Montreal practice, I see chin augmentation surgery dramatically improve my patients’ facial characteristics by balancing out a weak jawline or nondescript chin. A more defined chin creates cohesion between the upper and lower half of the face, which is the look desired by most of our patients.

The most common type of chin surgery, mentoplasty, uses implants made of synthetic materials that feel like a real chin. On the other hand, genioplasty does not use an implant, but instead moves the chin bone forward to create a more defined jaw.

The choice to proceed with chin implants or genioplasty is an important one, which is why it is also necessary to understand the recovery process. For mentoplasty, normal facial exercises are allowed following chin implant surgery–but not too soon after. Timing varies from surgeon to surgeon and depends on how the implant was secured. Excessive movement may shift your new implant out of place.

If the implant was secured with screws, then exercises could be resumed early after surgery. Generally, allow your face to rest for at least 5 to 7 days. This means no animated laughing for about a week, unfortunately.

If the implant was secured with sutures, the risk is higher for the implant to shift and both mild and significant pressure may cause it to do so. Consult with your surgeon prior to starting any specific facial exercises that you wish to try, as they may suggest waiting at least three months before resuming facial exercises.

It is also best not to exercise within the first 2 weeks after surgery. Walking is fine, but any intense activity, such as running, weight lifting, or rock climbing should be refrained from until at least 2 or 3 weeks post-surgery.

The recovery from chin implants is quick, considering the complexity of the procedure. However, it is extremely important to take it easy during the recovery period and not start exercises, facial or otherwise, too soon. Chin implants are personal investments and should be treated as advised by your surgeon for the entirety of your healing process.

If you would like further information or are interested in booking a consultation for chin implant surgery, contact the Dr. Fouda Neel team of experts to discuss any questions you may have.