Chin Augmentation Overview
A small, undersized chin can make the nose look larger and more prominent, make an overbite appear more pronounced and result in a double chin. A small chin can project an image of weakness and distort the profile of the face.
Chin Augmentation can help people with a weak chin by enhancing the size and/or shape of the chin and bringing it into better balance with the other facial features, especially the nose. The procedure is often performed at the same time as Nose Surgery or Rhinoplasty to balance the proportions of the face and create a more attractive profile. Chin Augmentation may also be combined with a Facelift, Liposuction, Cheek Augmentation, Lip Augmentation or other procedures.
Types of Chin Implants
Chin implants come in different shapes and sizes, and can even be custom made, to meet the individual needs of each patient. Most implants are made of solid silicone, a flexible and durable substance which is safe for use inside the body. As healing takes place, supportive tissue forms around the implant. After a few weeks the implant feels like the natural underlying bone structure. Chin implants can also be used for reconstructive purposes.
Ideal Candidates
The best candidates for Chin Augmentation are people who are in good health and want to improve the appearance of their face with a stronger, more defined chin and an enhanced facial contour.
In general, the best candidates for Chin Augmentation:
- Are in good physical and psychological health.
- Are well-informed about treatment options and have realistic expectations.
- Want to improve their appearance by enhancing the size and/or shape of the chin.
- Would benefit psychologically and emotionally from stronger chin that is in better balance with the nose and other facial features.
If you believe you may be a good candidate for Chin Augmentation, schedule your consultation with a Top Plastic Surgeon to discuss your facial rejuvenation options. Your surgeon will conduct a medical examination, explain anything about the procedure you don't understand, answer all of your questions and help you decide if the procedure is right for you.
Chin Augmentation Risks
Complications are rare and usually minor when Chin Augmentation is performed by a qualified plastic surgeon. However, all surgeries carry risks. To minimize your risk, carefully follow all of your surgeon's instructions both before and after the procedure. Contact your surgeon's office immediately if you experience any symptoms you believe may indicate a complication.
The most common risks associated with Chin Augmentation surgery include:
- Shifting of the implant
- Extrusion of the implant (when the implant is visible through the skin)
- Pain or swelling beyond normal levels
- Numbness (usually temporary)
- Infection
- Adverse reaction to anesthesia
- Dissatisfaction with results
In rare cases, a second procedure is necessary to treat a persistent infection or to reposition an implant that shifts or extrudes (can be seen through the skin). No scar is visible if an intra-oral (inside the mouth) incision was used. The scar from an incision under the chin is inconspicuously located beneath the chin and fades over time.
Chin Augmentation Costs
The national average surgeon/physician fee for Chin Augmentation in 2020 was $3,137, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This figure does not include other costs, such as anesthesia, operating room facilities or other related expenses. You should be provided with complete information on costs and financing options at the initial consultation with your doctor.
The total fee for Chin Augmentation can vary depending on the region of the country, the extent of the procedure and your specific needs as a patient. As it is considered to be a cosmetic procedure, the cost of Chin Augmentation is usually not covered by health insurance.
Chin Augmentation Consultation
If you are considering Chin Augmentation, the first step is to schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon. During your consultation, the surgeon will examine your case and discuss your options in detail. Be sure to ask any questions you have about Chin Augmentation and your expectations for the procedure.
The surgeon should fully address all of your questions and give you the full details of the recommended procedure, including the benefits, risks, costs and recovery time. Be sure to ask for before and after photos of the surgeon's recent Chin Augmentation patients.
The surgeon will take a complete medical history, including existing medical conditions, medications (prescription and non-prescription) and vitamins. Be sure to tell the surgeon if you have any allergies, if you smoke or if you have had any gum or dental problems.
As the consultation concludes, you may wish to schedule your procedure, take some time to think or seek a second opinion. If you decide to proceed with the procedure, your plastic surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to prepare for your Chin Augmentation. These instructions will include guidelines for eating, drinking, and medications and vitamins to take or avoid before and after surgery.
How Chin Augmentation is Performed
The incision for Chin Augmentation is usually made on the inside of the lower lip or under the chin. A chin implant is inserted through the incision and placed into a pocket created by the surgeon over the bone at the tip of the chin. If the incision was made inside the mouth (intra-oral incision), dissolvable sutures are used to close the incision. If the incision was made under the chin, stitches will be removed after 5 to 7 days. After surgery, the chin may be taped for several days to minimize swelling and fluid accumulation.
Chin Augmentation usually takes from 30 minutes to 1 hour to complete. The surgery is generally performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return to the comfort of home on the same day as the surgery. Chin Augmentation alone is usually performed using a local anesthetic to numb the lower face along with a mild sedative for relaxation. However, general anesthesia, which puts you to sleep, may be used if Chin Augmentation is one of a combination of procedures.
Chin Augmentation Recovery
After Chin Augmentation, most patients experience some minor discomfort along with temporary swelling, bruising and numbness. Any pain should subside quickly and be easily controlled with medication. Swelling and bruising usually peaks a few days after the procedure and disappears after a couple of weeks. However, it may take from 4 to 6 weeks for all swelling to subside and the new facial contours to be plainly visible.
Moving the mouth may be difficult immediately after surgery and patients may temporarily find it hard to smile and talk. If the incision was made inside the mouth, you may be placed on a soft food diet for several days.
For the first few days after your Chin Augmentation, take it easy, get plenty of rest and follow all of your post-operative instructions. Your plastic surgeon will ask you to keep your head elevated for a few days or longer to reduce swelling. Tape applied to the chin to reduce swelling and accumulation of fluids can be removed several days after surgery. Stitches used to close an incision under the chin are removed in 5 to 7 days.
Most patients can resume normal activities and return to work in about a week. Strenuous activity or any activity that involves contact or pressure to the chin should be avoided for at least 3 weeks.