Chin Augmentation

Click here to view before and after pictures of Chin Augmentation patients.

Chin augmentation, sometimes referred to as a chin enhancement, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure able to add prominence to the chin and achieve better harmony of the facial features by inserting a facial implant into the chin area. This procedure may be performed alone or in conjunction with other procedures such as rhinoplasty, submentalplasty or a facelift. There are a variety of facial implants that may be used. Dr. Williamsrecommends the Gortex chin implants as he feels they have advantages over the other FDA approved implants available for chin augmentation. Good candidates for chin augmentation include men and women who are looking to add prominence to a receding or small chin. Patients should also be physically healthy and realistic in their expectations.

Chin augmentation typically takes thirty minutes to an hour to complete and may be performed in a surgeon's office-based facility, an outpatient's surgery center or a hospital. Local anesthesia with sedation is commonly used, though some procedures may be performed with general anesthesia. The incision is a small one made on the skin just under the chin area. Once the incision is made, the surgeon will create a pocket over the front of the jawbone, insert the implant, and then close the incisions. The implant will be carefully selected to ensure that the size and shape fits the patient.

Immediately after surgery, a secure head dressing will be applied. For the first few days, patients may experience some discomfort though this can be controlled with prescription pain medication. Talking and smiling may be difficult at first, and restrictions may be placed patients' diets. Swelling and bruising is common. Within five to seven days after surgery, the stitches will be removed. Most patients are able to return to work within one week, though any activity that can jar or bump the face must be postponed for about six weeks. The potential complications that are associated with chin augmentation include the following: adverse anesthesia reactions, capsular contracture, implant shifting, infection, unnatural shape, and the need for additional surgery.

Click here to see Post-op Care Instructions for Chin Augmentation