Will A Sliding Genioplasty Reversal Fix My Contacted Lower Lip?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I’m 6 weeks post op and my lower lip is contracted. If I get a reversal now can I get my lower lip back? My mouth looks downturned and aged. When would be the limit of time to get a reversal and get my lower lip back? My face looks so long. Please help.

A:I don’t know what amount of bony movements were done in your sliding genioplasty and, while it can certainly be reversed, that is not a guarantee that the soft tissue changes of the lip and mouth will be restored.  (they might but no one can say for sure) The only reversal change that would almost certainly be restored is the decrease in vertical height and projection.

The key decision on timing to do so is not about the bone healing but about the certainty that the patient wants to do so based on knowing the true final results…which is not fully evident until 3 months after the surgery.

Dr. Barry Eppley

World-Renowned Plastic Surgeon