Posted by Dr. Hardesty

A chin augmentation, also known medically and referred to as a genioplasty, is the process of surgically and/or non-surgically improving the chin in relation to the face for improved facial harmony.

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WHAT CAN A CHIN AUGMENTATION HELP WITH?

Like any other features of the face, chins have various shapes and sizes. A well-proportioned chin creates a harmonic state of balance between your neck, nose, and cheeks. It can make a larger nose appear smaller and make the jawline sleeker, streamlined, and younger in appearance.

WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR CHIN AUGMENTATION?

A small or recessed chin may not provide enough projection to create a visual balance between the face, nose, and neck. A recessed chin, because of its small size, can often make the nose appear larger. In addition, a “weak” chin can make the neck look thicker, droopier, and not as streamlined. Individuals with a “weak” chin now have several options to bring the chin into balance and harmony with the facial anatomy and results in more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

HOW IS CHIN AUGMENTATION PERFORMED?

There are several ways to perform a chin augmentation using both surgical and non-surgical techniques including:

Chin implants

Chin implant surgery is the classic and most common technique used for chin augmentation. Chin implants come in various sizes and shapes. Most commonly, the chin implant is anatomically shaped and chosen based on your jaw shape and amount of additional projection that is desired. Chin implants are typically made from hardened, non-gel, medical-grade silicone. Alternative implant types are made of biocompatible composite products. Access for placement of a chin implant is either made through a short incision underneath the chin or inside your mouth. Results are meant to be permanent, as a chin implant can last a lifetime. However, the implant can be removed if desired with another surgery. Implant surgery can be accomplished using either local or general anesthesia.

Using your own bone

Also known as a “sliding genioplasty,” an osteotomy (bone cut) can be made in the chin bone and slid forward. This is comparable to opening a drawer and pulling the drawer forward. The new position is held by small biocompatible screws or wires. A sliding osseous genioplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia.

Fillers

Biological fillers are a non-surgical and temporary method to provide added projection to the chin. The advantage of fillers is that one can see what the chin augmentation will look like before committing to the procedure. However, there is a limitation of how much projection can be obtained with fillers alone. Usually, no anesthesia is required for this technique.

HOW LONG WILL CHIN AUGMENTATION RESULTS LAST?

With chin implants or movement of the chin bone, the results are designed to be permanent. A chin implant should last a lifetime, however, if desired, the implant can be removed or replaced with another surgery. Likewise, if a sliding genioplasty is performed once the bone is healed will be permanent. In contrast, fillers will last for a length that is based on their content and the unique individual absorption characteristics.

HOW LONG DOES CHIN AUGMENTATION TAKE TO RECOVER FROM?

Implant surgery

After an intraoral surgery, 24-48 hours of clear liquids is required, advancing to a regular diet. Regardless of the access incision, the swelling and bruising usually resolve fairly rapidly and most are back to usual activity in several days.

Sliding genioplasty

Sliding genioplasty usually results in a bit more swelling and bruising. This causes a slightly longer recovery time of about 5-7 days.

Injectable fillers

Injectable fillers are associated with minimal swelling, and since no incisions are made, the recovery time is negligible.

ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES TO SURGERY?

As presented above, biocompatible fillers are a non-surgical and a non-permanent option for those who do not wish to have surgery.

WHAT WILL GENIOPLASTY NOT HELP?

Regardless of the type, the genioplasty or chin augmentation may improve, but will not restore, a totally balanced facial appearance if the nose, neck, and cheeks issues are not addressed.

CAN I COMBINE THIS WITH OTHER PROCEDURES?

Yes, chin augmentation is often combined with a Rhinoplasty or Facelift. The chin augmentation provides a synergistic benefit of bringing balance and harmony to the nose and neck.

ARE THERE ANY RISKS/COMPLICATIONS WITH CHIN AUGMENTATION?

Besides the generally very low risks of any surgical procedure such as bleeding, infection, and anesthesia there is an additional uncommon risk of extrusion of the implant or absorption of bone.

COST/FFEES

The cost of chin augmentation are based on the anesthesia used (local vs sedation or general anesthesia), the facility (minor surgical suite, outpatient operating room or hospital setting), and if combined with other procedures. All pre and post-operative care is included. Some preoperative laboratory analysis may be required (usually covered by your medical insurance).

SUMMARRY

Chin augmentation can provide a dramatic and lasting improvement in one’s facial profile. The most important factor to consider is seeking the opinion and services of a skilled, experienced and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in Riverside CA who are experts in chin augmentation techniques. The Imagine Plastic Surgery team uniquely provides the full array of both non surgical and surgical alternatives to chin augmentation thus filling our motto of “One Goal, Many Options.” For more information, call and schedule a consultation.