Numbness of Lip and Chin (Lower Left) After Chin Implant Surgery. How Long Should I Expect Numbness?

Question

Surgery was 7/19/13. Face lift, chin implant and rhinoplasty. I'm 58. Excellent health. Recovery has been flawless except for the numbness on one side (left). At first, I could not smile and speech was imparied. That is much better (about 90%). At one month check-up, my surgeon said that he would be worried if motor function had not improved but since it is improving, he is not worried. I'm just a little nervous because right side is completely healed and left side is still tingling and numb. Thanks

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello!  Thank you for your question!  Numbness after any surgical 
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following.  As the 
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary 
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction.  This usually 
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure 
performed, sometimes much longer.  Typically this should resolve by 1 
year.  As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation 
returning is small.  However, it can take up to 2 years.  If no return 
from there, it is unlikely to return.  It should be discussed that 
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical 
procedure.  Followup closely with your surgeon - you may require adjustment of the implant.  The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
 resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then 
occasional sharp, shock-like pains.  These will be normal to experience,
 and actually a promising sign.  Usually, normal sensation returns, but 
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased 
sensation to the areas affected.  Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
 often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected 
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the 
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc.  If 
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including 
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity.  You can try various textures 
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc.  Massaging the areas is
 also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible.  The
 last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the 
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
 location.  If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted.  After 
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has 
developed and may require surgical excision.  This is very unlikely 
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during 
the procedure.  Hope that this helps!  Best wishes!

Paul S. Nassif, MD · Answer

Is is not abnormal to still have some numbness at this stage after your surgery. I would recommend continuing to follow up with your surgeon, as they know the extent of your procedure and exactly what was performed. I hope this helps, and I wish you the best of luck.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Chin implant placement may sometimes cause numbness of the lower lip and chin from traction (stretch) on the sensory nerve serving this area.  Tingling sensations are common as the nerve recovers so it sounds like this will resolve completely.  I have seen it take 3 months to fully improve and you should continue to follow up with your surgeon to monitor this.

Numbness of Lip and Chin (Lower Left) After Chin Implant Surgery. How Long Should I Expect Numbness?

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Numbness of Lip and Chin (Lower Left) After Chin Implant Surgery. How Long Should I Expect Numbness?

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Everything you need to know about Chin Implant

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