Chin

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure to reshape or enhance the size of the chin in order to provide better balance to the facial features.

It may be done either by inserting an implant or by moving or reshaping bones. This procedure is often performed simultaneously with a rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or other facial surgery. At The Plastic Surgery Center, we perform this surgery—considered minimally invasive—in the care and comfort of our Ambulatory Surgery Center.

Over the years, chin augmentation has gained increasing popularity, resulting in slightly over 19,000 procedures in 2013, the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

There are two types of chin surgery: chin augmentation (genioplasty) and chin reduction (mentoplasty).

Facial plastic surgery, such as to the chin, enhances your appearance and eliminates signs of premature aging. Chin shape has a strong influence on the general appearance of the entire face and neck. Improving the chin shape may have an overall positive effect on a variety of areas in the face and neck.

To augment the chin, the surgeon begins by making an incision either inside the mouth where the gum and lower lip meet or just under the chin in the natural crease. The implant is made of synthetic material that feels much like natural tissue normally found in the chin. It comes in various sizes and allows for custom fitting to the configuration of the patient’s face. After implantation, the surgeon uses fine sutures to close the incision. When the incision is inside the mouth, no scarring is visible. If the incision is under the chin, the scar can barely be seen.

In chin reduction surgery, incisions are made either in the mouth or under the chin. The surgeon sculpts the bone to a more esthetically desirable size. For this procedure, the surgeon makes an incision to facilitate a repositioning of the facial bones.

Depending on the type of chin surgery, visible swelling takes about 10 days to resolve, and complete recovery takes approximately 6 weeks. Chin implants become optimally acclimated to the face in about 2-3 months.

There are a variety of choices and decisions regarding chin surgery. A consultation with one of our plastic surgeons can provide you with detailed information so you can make the best possible choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation, technically known as mentoplasty, can be performed to correct abnormalities due to a small chin at birth, or as the result of injury or the effects of aging. Chin augmentation can enhance the profile and/or facial structure and create balance. Also, although it is less common, an overly prominent chin can be reduced in size.

How common is chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation actually increased 71% in 2011, with almost 20,700 Americans getting this surgery, known as a "chinplant," with slightly more men opting for the procedure. This makes it the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure for that year.

Who is a good candidate for chin augmentation?

A person with particularly a recessed, or “weak” chin, who is in good health and has no medical or specifically jaw problems is a good candidate. As with all cosmetic procedures, a realistic outlook is also beneficial.

What does the procedure entail?

Surgical implants with the latest materials provide natural results to the feel and touch. In this case, the surgeon creates a pocket in front of the chin and under the muscles in order to place the implant. Depending on the region augmented, the surgeon can create a stronger and/or wider chin, and even lengthen your face. The procedure is relatively simple and takes about an hour.

What does recovery entail?

You will have some stitches and bandages and our staff will instruct you on how to best care for them. Some soreness and normal swelling is to be expected, and can be relieved by medication, and you may or may not experience bruising. You should be able to return to normal activities within five to seven days. A feeling of numbness to the area should subside in a few weeks. Similar to rhinoplasty, slight, often unnoticeable swelling of the chin can take up to five months to subside for the complete results to be apparent. You should avoid exercise or heavy lifting for about three weeks following surgery, or as per your doctor’s recommendation.

Is a chin augmentation combined with other procedures?

Chin augmentation is frequently done simultaneously with other procedures, especially rhinoplasty, and it can also be done with a facelift, or neck liposuction.

Consultation

At The Plastic Surgery Center, we offer complimentary cosmetic chin augmentation consultations with one of our expert facial plastic surgeons. After a thorough evaluation your surgeon will help you to decide whether you are a good candidate for chin augmentation. Commonly, our surgeons will discuss other facial procedures that can be performed at the same time as chin augmentation to improve your overall result and maintain facial balance.