Chin augmentation is used to improve facial proportions and overall facial balance. This may be achieved by either fillers or implants. The advantage of filler use is that it’s temporary, the procedure is done in the office, and fillers that is made from hyaluronic acid can be dissolved if the patient doesn’t like the result. Chin implants can provide significant volume enhancement immediately that will last for the life of the implant. Surgery is required to place the implant. For some patients where significant augmentation is desired, chin implant is the solution.
Chin Implants Procedure Details
Chin implants are done as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia in most cases. The implant is through the inside of the mouth through a small incision in the lower jaw anteriorly. The implant can also be place through a small external incision under the chin from the outside where the scar is well concealed if neck liposuction is done at the same time. The implant is secured to the bone by a small screw to prevent movement after surgery in some cases.
Chin Augmentation Recovery
Bruising can occur after surgery and will take about 2 weeks to resolve, while swelling will take at least 4-6 weeks to resolve. The patient is recommended to keep the head elevated even while sleeping to reduce swelling.
Pain is very minimal. Complication is low and the surgery is well tolerated. But as with any surgery, there is risk of bleeding, infection, hematoma, fluid collection despite drain placement and after drain removal, tissue necrosis, open wound, contour deformity, scarring, asymmetry, decrease or no sensation in the surgical area.