Chin Implants

Chin implants, though largely overshadowed by other, more popular surgeries, can be an excellent solution for individuals who wish to augment the size and shape of their chin. If you are unsure exactly what chin implants are, or if you are wondering about the price range for chin implant surgery, becoming educated about the procedure is the all-important first step toward enhancing your appearance with a chin implant.

Chin Implant Candidates

Chin enlargement with chin implants provides benefit to individuals who have a recessed chin and who may also have a prominent nose. Cosmetic chin surgery adds definition to the jaw and balances the appearance of a large nose. Chin implants are often used in conjunction with rhinoplasty for maximum aesthetic effect and may be used with cheek implants and lip augmentation for overall facial balance.

Candidates for cosmetic chin surgery should be in good health and have reasonable expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Anyone who has taken Accutane® in the past six months is not a good candidate, as Accutane® can affect bone growth and cause keloid scarring. Individuals who suffer from cardiac problems or hypertension, and those taking anticoagulants should avoid chin plastic surgery as well.

What Do Chin Implants Look Like ?

The look of chin implants varies according to the material they are made of. Preformed chin implants, such as those made of GORE-TEX® or silicone, are shaped a little like the narrow chin guard of a sports helmet. The cosmetic surgeon may further carve the implant to adjust the shape for a custom fit. Once in place, the chin implant should create a strong, natural-looking jaw line. Some plastic surgeons can demonstrate the cosmetic benefit that chin implants provide through computer imaging, which allows patients to see what they will look like after their surgery.

The Chin Enlargement Operation

A cosmetic chin enlargement procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis at the surgeon’s facility, but may be performed at a hospital. The length of time the procedure takes depends on several factors, but is usually from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Depending on the surgeon’s and the patient’s preference, local or general anesthesia may be used.

To perform the chin implant surgery procedure, an incision is made inside the mouth between the gum and lower lip so that there will be no visible scarring. If this cannot be done, the incision will be made just underneath the chin. The chin implant is then inserted and positioned in front of the jawbone. The surgeon then checks its appearance for proper balance with other facial features and may adjust or modify the implant to ensure the proper look is achieved. Once this is done, the chin implant is sutured into place, and the procedure is complete. Sutures inside the mouth will dissolve after about 10 days. Sutures outside the mouth are removed after approximately the same period.

Chin Surgery Complications

One of the questions asked most often by those considering getting a chin implant is: “Are chin implants safe?” Although rare, chin implant surgery complications do occur. Bruising and swelling that can last up to six weeks should be expected after the procedure. Complications related to anesthesia can also happen and usually affect the respiratory system. Other risks include migration of the chin implant after it has been placed. This may require a second procedure to adjust the implant into proper alignment. Infection poses a risk but can usually be effectively controlled with antibiotics. Since chin implant surgery can potentially damage small nerves, post-surgery numbness of the lip and chin is a possible side effect of aesthetic chin surgery.

Consult a Chin Surgeon for More Information

The risk of chin surgery complications can be greatly reduced by choosing a qualified plastic surgeon that has expertise in chin surgery. DocShop provides listings of exceptional cosmetic surgeons throughout the country, many of whom have extensive experience in cosmetic chin surgery procedures.