Chin augmentation, also known as mentoplasty, involves surgically inserting a silicone implant into the area below the lips to strengthen and define the jaw.
Chin Augmentation in Richmond, VA
Overview
Chin augmentation, also known as mentoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery that uses a biocompatible implant to alter the shape and size of the chin. Chin implants are best for patients who feel that their chin is weak or small in comparison to their face and neck. Matthew Bridges, MD, FACS, a facial plastic surgeon in Midlothian, VA, uses high-quality flexible silicone implants in a wide variety of sizes and shapes that will be carefully selected during the initial consultation to match the patient's desired goals. A proportionate chin will not only flatter the patient's natural face and neck angles but also strengthen the patient's jawline and create a shapelier, younger-looking profile.
Surgical Technique
A common technique for this procedure is to use a silicone implant that is moved through an incision made under the chin. The implant is then placed directly over the bone along the lower jaw. A pocket might be constructed to hold it, which may involve shaving the jawbone to help fit the implant in place. Surgical sutures will be used to attach the implant to the chin bone. In some cases, the incision will be made on the inside of the mouth. Immediately after surgery, medical tape or a compression dressing will be applied to help protect the implant while the jaw recovers.
During/After Surgery
Chin augmentation is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia at an accredited surgical facility. The entire surgery typically takes about an hour to complete, but it could take longer, depending on the technique used. Recovery from this surgery usually takes about 4-6 weeks. During this time, the swelling, discomfort, and numbness that occur in the chin and lower lip will gradually improve. Most patients are pleased with their results and feel that they have a stronger, more defined profile because of the surgery.
Chin Augmentation FAQ
Can chin augmentation help with a double chin?
Will sensation return?
Will there be visible scars?
What is genioplasty?
Can chin augmentation help with a double chin?
Chin implants are designed to offer patients a sharper, stronger jawline. Those who have a 'double chin' may be better candidates for a liposuction procedure, where the fat within the chin and neck is removed. Sometimes, this technique alone can create a new profile and look without needing an implant procedure.
Will sensation return?
It is normal to feel numbness and a change in skin sensation following chin augmentation surgery. As the implant gets used to its new habitat, nearby tissue and jawline structures will also get used to having it there. Several weeks after surgery, this sensation will begin to subside, and, over time, normal sensitivity will gradually reappear. It may take up to a full year for patients to regain full sensitivity.
Will there be visible scars?
Scarring is very minimal with chin augmentation surgery because the incision is either placed on the inside of the mouth, where it is completely hidden, or it is made under the chin. Even the incision done under the chin will be mostly concealed or hard to see during social situations.
What is genioplasty?
In addition to chin augmentation with implants, some individuals may be suitable candidates for genioplasty, which reshapes the chin by surgically repositioning the chin bone. This procedure is more complex than implants alone and is sometimes considered a reconstructive surgery. In some cases, genioplasty will be done in combination with neck liposuction and chin implants.
