Chin Augmentation
In this fast moving age, first impressions are often made according to how you look. Whether you realize it or not, people may make assessments of you based on your facial characteristics. A well-supported facial structure, including a strong chin, is often associated with a strong character. Many men and women, who want to improve the definition of their face, can now do so through chin augmentation.
Chin augmentation is a fairly common procedure and often accompanies rhinoplasty, a face lift, or cheek implants. A chin implant can dramatically improve your face and profile.
Another technique for improving the profile of the chin is to use fat injection. A patient’s own fat can be used to contour the jawline as well as increase the projection of the chin. With this technique, a small amount of fat can be harvested from the abdomen, flanks, or thighs. It is then cleaned and processed for reinjection where it is needed along the jawline.
About the Procedure
Chin augmentation, or chin implant surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Local anesthesia is usually used, along with intravenous sedation. You may instead choose general anesthesia, depending on your health and whether other procedures are being performed at the same time.
Chin implants are typically placed through an incision made inside the lower lip or through a natural skin crease located beneath the chin. The surgeon selects the implant that would best enhance your appearance and inserts it into a pocket created over the front of the jawbone.
Chin implants are made of solid silicone material (an inert substance) and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.
Recovery and Healing
You can expect some discomfort in the chin area for several days after surgery. There may be some temporary difficulty in smiling and talking.
There will also be some swelling in the affected area. Following a chin implant, your physician will provide you with specific postoperative instructions regarding dental care, eating, and additional activity restrictions.
Risks
You can expect some pain and discomfort for several days after the procedure, but it should not be significant. Pain medication can be used as needed and recommended by your doctor.
As with any medical procedure, there are risks, including infection around the implant or reactions to anesthesia. If infection does occur, and if it cannot be resolved with antibiotics, the implant may have to be removed and replaced at a later time.
Sometimes a chin implant is not properly aligned. If this occurs, a second operation may be necessary to reposition it.