Chin Augmentation – Chin IMPLANT
When to consider A chin augmentation – chin implant
A well-defined chin is the foundation of a beautiful profile but is often overlooked. People unhappy with their profile often focus on the size of their noses. However, double-board certified Dr. Diana Ponsky believes that chin augmentation may be as crucial in achieving balance and facial harmony. Chin augmentation is oftentimes a great compliment to other procedures such as rhinoplasty and facelift surgery. When the chin is brought into proportion with the rest of the face, the results can be dramatic and very satisfying.
Chin surgery, chin implants, or genioplasty is ideal for patients with a recessed or small chin, a large or protruding chin, or an asymmetric or crooked chin. Performed alone or at the time of a nose job, chin surgery helps to maximize facial balance.
How It Helps
If you have a weak or recessed chin, an overly prominent nose, or a heavy neck, a chin augmentation can help balance your facial features. This procedure involves using implants or surgical modification to increase the prominence of the chin. Doing so can reduce the appearance of a double chin, improve jawline and neck definition, and bring your facial features into better proportion for a more balanced appearance.
BEFORE
What to expect before chin augmentation surgery
During the consultation, Dr. Ponsky will examine the patient’s profile, which is usually the most concerning to the patient. She will examine the dental or occlusion to confirm that genioplasty is an appropriate treatment. Candidates for chin augmentation, chin implant, or chin reduction may report a deep under or overbite, and collaboration with dentists is sometimes recommended.
DURING
What to expect during chin implant surgery
Light sedation will be administered to maximize your comfort. A small incision will be made underneath the chin. Your custom-formed implant will be placed in front of the chin and jawline and then secured in position through that opening. Alternatively, the front of the jaw can be moved forward in a sliding genioplasty operation. If the jaw is too prominent, bone can be removed to decrease an overly projecting chin.
AFTER
What to expect after chin augmentation – Chin Implant surgery
Expect swelling and bruising in the area, and keep your head elevated to minimize swelling, including during sleep. Minimize talking and laughing, and plan to eat soft foods for a week. You may be instructed to use a light compression dressing on the chin for 3-5 days after surgery. You may develop moderate swelling and bruising of the chin and neck region for 7-10 days after the surgery. There is a slight chance of numbness to the lip, rarely permanent, after the surgery. Final results are not apparent for approximately 2-3 months after surgery once the swelling has completely resolved. Follow-up appointments should be expected for a year.
