Chin Augmentation
Chin augmentation, or mentoplasty, reshapes the chin to bring better balance to your face, whether that means adding projection with an implant or refining the underlying bone.
What Is Chin Augmentation?
Chin surgery, known as mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin. Bone from the jaw itself can be moved forward in an operation called a mentoplasty or genioplasty. A shaped silicone implant can add projection. Bone can also be removed to reduce an overly projecting chin.
In some cases, modifications to the upper or lower jaw are recommended to improve chewing dynamics and occlusion, which is how your teeth fit together. These operations range from simple to very complex.
Implant or Bone
Shaped silicone implants can add projection, or the jawbone itself can be moved forward or reduced.
Improved Balance
Helps strengthen a small or recessed chin and bring definition to an undefined jawline.
Quick Recovery
Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.
Are You a Candidate for Chin Surgery?
Mentoplasty can address both cosmetic and structural concerns. You may be a good candidate if any of the following sound familiar.
- Your chin is small or recessed in relation to the rest of your face
- You feel you have a weak chin or an undefined jawline
- You have a birth difference to correct, such as a cleft chin
- You would like to improve the look of a scar
The Chin Augmentation Procedure
Chin augmentation often takes between one and two hours, though more complex cases can take longer. It can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or under general anesthesia.
Incisions are made inside the mouth or, more commonly, under the chin, and the skin is lifted off the underlying bone and soft tissue. If bone needs to be removed, your surgeon can do this with a chisel.
When an implant is placed, a small pocket is created either on top of the chin bone or underneath the chin muscle. The implant is inserted and the incisions are closed with sutures.
Recovery and Next Steps
Recovery time is usually quick, with most patients able to return to their normal activities within a few days. If you are considering chin surgery, consult with a plastic surgeon experienced in this procedure. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced plastic surgeons.