Sliding Chin Genioplasty - Highly recommended Maxillofacial Surgeon in London

Provider Review

• 4 Nov 2017

I had a Sliding Chin Genioplasty following implant removal in mid October 2017 with Ms Caroline Mills. I had a silicone implant placed in 2004 by Dr Peter Butler, which was subsequently replaced with Gore-Tex implant 2006 (the second implant was placed abroad during a rhinoplasty revision as the surgeon felt its was moving around to freely). Despite the second implant being pourous, over the years the implant moved and positioned itself on the left side of my chin giving my lower face a very asymmetrical masculine appearance. I have always had an asymmetrical face and decided that it was best to leave it alone as overall I was quite happy with my face, I was able to overlook the appearance of my chin most of the time. In addition I had researched removal of porous implants and it seemed like it would be a difficult undertaking especially given that mine had been in situ for over 10 years. Earlier this year I started experiencing intermittent numbness along the right side of my lower lip downwards onto my chin pad so decided to consult with Ms Mills. I explained the issues I was having along with not liking the appearance the implant gave my chin. Ms Mills referred me for a CT scan with Cavendish Medical then invited me back for a second consultation. Once my scan results came back I was very promptly able to see Ms Mills to discuss the findings. It was apparent from the scan that the implant was sitting on my mentalis nerve which could possibly explain my symptoms of numbness. Ms Mills consulted extremely well having a very relaxed and down to earth approach. Ms Mills made note of all the information I gave her, examined me and then took her time to explain what my options were. I must add, I have worked as a healthcare professional in the surgical/ cosmetic industry for over 10 years therefore I come very well informed and have an articulate but realistic approach to surgery. I had already decided that I did not want to go down the route of replacing the existing implant as my scan indicated some level of bone erosion. Ms Mills took into account my aesthetic requirements and managed my expectations professionally and most importantly realistically. I went away knowing what could be achieved and came back for a third consultation with more questions prior to committing to surgery. Ms Mills was able to use computer imaging to show me what she thought would look like a natural outcome for my facial features. Even though you cannot be MM specific with any surgery it gave me a good idea that we were both on the same page. Ms Mills took her time, answering all my questions, I was conscious that I was taking a lot of her consulting time during the final consultation. Ms Mills was adamant that it was important for me to be fully satisfied before going ahead with implant removal as she was aware that I was generally quite happy with my face. She explained that the shape of my chin would be very different to what it was with the implant in place. I had the surgery in mid October at the Weymouth Hospital. Ms Mills spoke to me prior to surgery and once again we went over what I wanted to achieve. I had the surgery with an overnight stay in what I consider to be an excellent facility with great attention to patient care. I was incredibly swollen from day 2 with swelling tailing off around day 6. I regained full sensation to my bottom lip in the first 24 hours. I am now at day 19, most of the swelling has started to subside. The sensation has started to return to my lower front four teeth with some numbness around the chin area, I can see that things will continue to improve in the coming weeks. I surmise from my recovery/ bruising and return of functions that Ms Miss would have been very gentle and meticulous during surgery. I am aware from my implant replacement in 2006 that bone/ soft tissue manipulation during an operation can have an impact on recovery, I was noticeably swollen for at last 6 weeks following that procedure. I saw Ms Mills the following week at which point I was still very swollen. She asked me to get in touch if I had any issues. I followed aftercare instructions and rested well and so far, (touch wood) my recovery has been uneventful. I wrote this review as I wanted to share my experience with Ms Mills. I am very happy with the results so far, I can see that as the swelling goes down it will continue to change and improve. I now have a very natural well proportioned chin which doesn't look as wonky. Ms Mills has managed to achieve the best-case scenario for me. I have always remained realistic however a chin genioplasty can be challenging operation as you look almost unrecognisable for some 7-10 days. I can see how disheartening it can be when you are anxious about the outcome. In my experience, you are not in position to make any judgment on the chin for at least 10 days and any knee jerk reactions to appearance before that point can be detrimental to your acceptance of the procedure you have had done. Over the years I have worked with and met many surgeons, I would highly recommend Ms Mills, she put me at ease and was very knowledgable about the procedure. I was very comfortable around her and most importantly she listens to you and will manage your expectations effectively. If you are looking for a highly experienced professional with a relaxed friendly approach then please see Ms Mills, she is an excellent surgeon. I am haven’t posted any pictures on this website for professional reasons however I am more than happy to speak to anyone and share my experience.