All about Chin Augmentation and Implants

The chin is a pronounced feature on the face – rarely too large and more commonly too small. In adjusting the look of the chin, the entire face can look more symmetrical and more attractive.  As with any surgical procedure, doing research ahead of time will prepare the patient for their surgery as well as for the results they can expect.

Chin Augmentation and Chin Implants

Sometimes a chin which does not project and enough can make a face look misshapen or weak.  With the use of chin implants, the chin will create a smoother profile and a more pronounced face shape.  During a chin augmentation surgery, a surgeon will make an incision on either inside the cmouth or in the skin below the chin.  The covering of the bone called the periosteum is elevated, thus a pocket is created and the proper size implant is placed in it.  While I prefer silicone as the first choice of implant material, other substances can be used as well.  The implant will be specifically chosen for the patient and there are many sizes which can accommodate male and female faces.  The incision is then sutured and the patient can soon return home.

Potential Risks of Chin Surgery

In the hands of a capable and trained plastic surgeon, a patient will have a reduced risk of side effects.  However, it is good to keep in mind that the operation can present these risks:

1. Infection
2. Misplacement of the implant

Though the chin surgery is an outpatient procedure, taking only a short time to complete, a surgeon who is not well trained might cause problems with the end results.  Someone who has not performed many chin augmentations may not be able to place the implant in the proper place, causing the implant to shift and to move from its desired location. 

Making sure to follow the orders of the surgeon after the surgery will help to reduce any chance of side effects, but patients can sometimes expect to see a bit of bruising and swelling over the course of a week to ten days after the operation Patients can often return to normal activities in a few days and to vigorous activities within three weeks.

Procedures for Chin Augmentation

For those patients who want to create a new look for their face, it can help to have additional cosmetic procedures with the chin augmentation surgery.  Many patients will have liposuction on their necklines to help define the chin implant better.  The contrast between the slimmer neckline and the newly pronounced chin can give the look of a stronger jawline, which is seen as more attractive. 

READ Surgical Lip Augmentation and Injectable Fillers

Prices for a chin augmentation will vary from surgeon to surgeon, but many practices charge around $5600.  These costs will not be covered by health insurance, so patients will need to look into financing options or they might work out a payment plan with the cosmetic surgeon.  It is helpful to keep in mind that a chin augmentation bill will include:

• Initial consultation
• Operating room fees
• Surgical costs
• Anesthesia costs
• Medications
• Follow up services

Choosing to have a chin augmentation is something which can help to restore a youthful appearance and give long lasting results.