A well defined chin plays a major part in balancing the face and creating a pleasing profile. The ideal size of the chin depends on other factors such as the overall size of your face, size of the nose and other facial features.
Chin augmentation, also called mentoplasty or genioplasty, can produce gratifying results in enhancing facial harmony. Men and women who may benefit from this procedure include those who seek to improve:
- A weak or receded chin which makes the face pointed and may make the neck appear bigger
- A strong or protruding chin that is not proportioned to other features of the face
- A small chin relative to a large nose
- A chin that appears too narrow
- A blunted or obtuse neck appearance
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Q & A
How is the procedure performed?
Chin augmentation is accomplished by placing an individually designed implant over the bony chin. It is inserted in a “pocket” located in the chin – sitting directly on the top of the bone and feels like an extension of the bone itself. Chin reduction, on the other hand, involves reducing the size of the lower jaw. Incisions are made within the mouth (between the gum and lip) or in a natural crease located beneath the chin.
Another possibility for improvement through chin surgery is submental liposuction in which excess fatty tissue is removed to redefine the chin or neckline. Your consultation with a surgeon at Cosmetic Surgery of America will help you decide on the type of technique will best achieve your aesthetic goals. Our surgeons would provide information on new medical techniques for chin surgery and offer recommendations to ensure the greatest improvement.
What are chin implants made of?
Chin implants are made of synthetic medical grade material that are stable over time and do not reabsorb to make results permanent. Silastic (silicone rubber) and Gore-tex are the materials of choice for this procedure because of their natural feel.
Can chin surgery be performed in conjunction with other procedures?
Yes. It is common for a facial plastic surgeon to recommend chin surgery in addition to nose surgery when the surgeon sees that chin augmentation is necessary to achieve facial balance and harmony.
What should I expect during recovery?
As with most procedures, there is some discomfort after the surgery that can be controlled with prescribed medication. Pressure bandages are placed overnight to minimize swelling but typically nothing else needs to be worn afterwards. During the recovery period, your surgeon will give you special instructions on maintaining good oral hygiene. A soft diet would be ideal for about a week to avoid stretching around the incision sites and minimize discomfort. Swelling and bruising around the chin and neck are normal but will generally recede and fade after a week.
When could I resume work and social activities?
For most patients, one week is sufficient. Swelling around the chin will improve over 5-7 days, after which patients are able to return to work and social activities.
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