Will my smile and mouth go back to normal after rhinoplasty and chin implant? (Photos)

Question

I had rhinoplasty, a chin implant and lipo 9 weeks ago and I've noticed my smile and mouth change a lot since the surgery. It now feels very forced and unnatural, and my lips cover my teeth much more than they did before. I've lost a lot of mobility in my lips and my smile is more narrow than before. I know this can be normal and my nose bridge and chin still feel stiff when I try to move them by frowning. But I'm 9 weeks post surgery and I feel like I look unnatural every time I talk and smile.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

The horizontal line in upper lip after rhinoplasty is common and happens from change of the muscle dynamics. It takes time but will get better. Sometimes you have to use a filler to make it less noticeable. Smile keeps getting better every month for up to a year. RegardsDr J

Alejandro Nogueira, MD · Answer

The wrinkle on your upper lip (philtrum) is temporary and due to the associated swelling, so no worries, it will subside.
However I don't like at all your chin, it seems to me a chin implant was not indicated and if any work had to be done in your chin was a two dimensional genioplasty (as per your other posts images). Your chin seems to be too masculine, overcorrected and a bit of a witche's chin.
If you wish better grounded opinion please do post or send privately well lit, focused and standard images: frontal, both lateral and both oblique views.
Feel free to request any additional information from me.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Based on your photos, you do not appear to have weakness or paralysis of your marginal mandibular nerves which pull the lower corners of your mouth down. Heaviness of your upper lip, and tightness around your chin should improve with time. Hope this helps! Dr Joseph

Michael M. Omidi, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question! It is rather difficult to fully evaluate your situation without an in-person exam.  
That being said, it's much too early for you to observe final results of your rhinoplasty.  It may take 6 or 9 months for swelling to resolve completely. In the meantime, you may experience some muscle tightness that will impact mobility in your lips. As your nose settles, you should be able to regain your ability to smile normally.  
An in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon would be the best way to assess your situation and guarantee an individualized medical advice. Best of luck!

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

Full recovery from rhinoplasty and chin augmentation surgery often takes a full 3 to 6 months for the final result and the tissues around the surgery sites to fully heal and recover. With more time your chin and ups should have mobility. I would give the chi at least another two months ti see how much improvekenyt can occur.

Will my smile and mouth go back to normal after rhinoplasty and chin implant? (Photos)

Answers (8)