A strong jaw line has long had a history of allure.  Along with the eyes, the jaw line forms the most photogenic aspects of the face. It is always important to judge the chin in relation to the rest of the face. Only by looking at the whole face (especially the forehead, nose and upper jaw) can the chin be assessed. Chin implants are a great way to enhance a facial profile by improving the overall proportion and balance of the face.  With chin implants (mentoplasty), the symmetry of the face can be shaped and contoured. Utilizing a permanent chin implant can provide a rejuvenated, youthful facial profile.

A chin implant can improve your appearance in certain cases but sometimes it may be better to move a part of the jawbone forward. The implant can be made from a variety of materials and is normally anatomically shaped to fit the lower jaw.

Reasons for Considering a Chin Implant:

• Extend or enlarge the chin if the chin is recessed or small.
• Create a more defined facial profile if the jaw or chin lacks distinction.
• Bring the various aspects of the face into proportion.

General Procedure

With chin surgery, an implant is inserted in front of the jawbone in order to augment the chin or jaw.  A small incision is made inside the mouth to allow the implant to be positioned in a pocket just under the skin.  An alternate location for this incision is below the chin (on the outside).  Chin surgery is commonly performed along with rhinoplasty (nose surgery). Chin implant procedures normally last from 30 minutes to one hour.

Recovery Process

Immediately after surgery, the face will be fitted with bandages, taped, or otherwise secured in order to speed the recovery process and to reduce swelling.  Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and recovery time.  Keeping the head elevated during the initial recovery phase is also important. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery.  Any pain can be treated effectively with oral medication.  The lower lip may be numb for a short period but will normally recover. The implant may slightly shift position, but this possibility becomes less as time goes on. Swelling and bruising are normally minimal. Patients may experience some swelling and bruising of the face which can be eased by using cold compresses.  A liquid diet may be required for a few days, as chewing may be difficult.

Infection is a small possibility and you will be provided with antibiotics for a few days to prevent this. If the incision was place on the inside of the mouth, small soft stitches will have been used, and oral hygiene will be very important in helping to prevent infection. While complications are rare, patients can minimize potential problems by carefully following the post-operative directions given after surgery.  The substance used for chin and cheek implants is made of a durable, solid material that will last for years.