Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the size and shape of the chin. Chin augmentations may be performed on those with either an inadequate or asymmetrical mandible or those who want to improve their profile. A patient’s unique anatomy and desired outcome will dictate the choice of surgery and subsequent recovery period. Words used to describe a chin augmentation include augmenting, augmentations, chin implants, implantation, or implants.
Who will Do it?
A chin augmentation can be performed by a variety of clinicians. A general plastic surgeon specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face, breast, and body. He or she may also specialize in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures, which is known as a craniofacial surgeon or facial plastic surgeon.
Before Your Treatment
Patients are fitted with an impression of their chin to determine the desired size and shape. While planning, the surgeon will meet with you to discuss your desired outcome and the amount of augmentation you require. You must also be certain that you do not smoke or drink alcohol prior to surgery, as this can increase your risk for infection.
Procedure Overview
Chin augmentation has evolved from its original method of adding orthodontic structures to the use of silicone gel-filled implants to the current technique of using injectable material for chin projection. There are two techniques used in chin augmentation: percutaneous and transaxillary.
Percutaneous Chin Augmentation: This technique involves making a small incision in the skin overlying the chin implant site and inserting a cannula through which injectable material is deposited under tissue directly into your body. No large incisions are made in the skin, and you will be able to leave immediately after this procedure.
Transaxillary Augmentation: This procedure involves making an incision along the front of the chin through which large amounts of injectable material are injected directly into the chin site. Transaxillary augmentation is typically performed under general anesthesia or deep sedation. The incision is closed with sutures and a surgical splint may be used. The amount of incision depends on the amount of injectable material needed to achieve the chin augmentation result you desire.
Recovery
Depending on your unique anatomy and the method used, you may expect to be back to work in as little as a few days or as much as six weeks after surgery—depending on how much trauma was caused by placing the implant. Patients frequently experience swelling and bruising at the chin site, but this will gradually subside within a few weeks. You should also expect slight swelling, discomfort, and minor pain for several weeks following your surgery. If you experience bleeding, infection, or other problems after the surgery, you should contact your surgeon immediately. At Rowe Plastic Surgery, your board-certified plastic surgeon will give you detailed instructions to support your recovery after chin augmentation.
Conclusion
Chin augmentation is a safe and effective way to improve facial balance and achieve the chin size and shape that complements your natural anatomy. Achieving the results you desire may also be accomplished with other procedures such as open mouth surgery, which is useful in correcting a receding chin or when chin augmentation alone will not meet your goals.
To schedule a consultation about chin augmentation in New Jersey, contact our convenient Red Bank office at 732-639-5661 or use our secure online form.
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