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 aesthetically 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.