Overview
Many people may not realize what an important role the chin plays in achieving facial harmony and symmetry. If the chin is too small, it can throw off the proportions of the face quite drastically. Inland Empire board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ben Childers, performs chin implant surgery to not only improve facial harmony, but also to create a stronger, more distinctive profile. He will create a chin pocket to place the implant and enlarge the chin shape. Together with the patient, Dr. Childers will determine the most suitable size, shape, and placement of the implant for a natural look.
Reviews
Surgical Technique
A common technique for this procedure uses a silicone implant that is moved through an incision made under the chin. The implant is then placed directly over the bone along the lower jaw. A pocket might be constructed to hold it, which may involve shaving the jawbone to help fit the implant in place. Surgical sutures will be used to attach the implant to the chin bone. In some cases, the incision will be made on the inside of the mouth. Immediately after surgery, medical tape or a compression dressing will be applied to help protect the implant while the jaw recovers.
During/After Surgery
Chin augmentation is an outpatient procedure that is performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. The entire surgery typically takes about an hour to complete, but it could take longer depending on the technique used. Recovery from this surgery usually takes about 4-6 weeks. During this time, the swelling, discomfort and numbness that occurs in the chin and lower lip will gradually improve. Most patients are pleased with their results and feel that they have a stronger, more defined profile because of the surgery.
Chin Augmentation FAQs
What About a Double Chin?
Chin implants are designed to offer patients a sharper, stronger look to their jaw line. Those who have a “double chin” may be better candidates for a liposuction procedure where the fat within the chin and neck is removed. Sometimes this technique alone can create a new profile and look without needing to have an implant procedure.
Will Sensation Return?
It will be very normal to feel numbness and a change in skin sensation following chin augmentation surgery. As the implant gets used to its new habitat, nearby tissue and jaw line structures will also get used to having it there. Several weeks after surgery, this heightened sensation will begin to subside and, over time, normal sensitivity will gradually reappear. It may take up to a full year for patients to regain full sensitivity.
Visible Scars?
Scarring is very minimal with chin augmentation surgery because the incision is placed either on the inside of the mouth, where it is completely hidden, or it is made under the chin. Even the incision done under the chin will be mostly concealed or hard to see during social situations.
What About Genioplasty?
In addition to chin augmentation with implants, some individuals may be suitable candidates for genioplasty. This is a procedure that reshapes the chin by surgically repositioning the chin bone. This procedure is more complex than implants alone and is sometimes considered a reconstructive surgery. In some cases, genioplasty will be done in combination with neck liposuction and chin implants.
