Often when nose surgery is being performed the balance of the face can also be enhanced by a proportionate chin.
This involves the insertion of a chin implant. There are different materials that can be used, ranging from silicone to fat grafting.
The benefits of these are:
Slicone:
- Used for over 50 years in facial surgeries it can be attached to the underlying bone. They come in soft right through to hard options. Scar tissue forms around the implant. It can generally be removed easily.
- Prolythylene Implants are designed to have no adverse affects within the body. They are biocompatible.
- Expanded Polytetrafluroethylene implants are designed to integrate into the body because of their porous surface. They are softer than the silicone option.
The other options are fat grafting which is constantly improving. A certain amount of the fat transferred has traditionally been re-absorbed however with improved techniques this is becoming a good non-invasive option.
There are fillers available also but these can be lumpy if the product travels.
What does a typical Chin Augmentation consultation entail?
Firstly, your doctor will discuss your goals with you and he/she will explain what can be achieved realistically. The usual goal of the typical patient is to correct a lacking chin. Discuss your goals with your doctor and the general result you would like to achieve. Your doctor will take into account your facial dimensions and natural face shape. You and your doctor will determine the type and size of implant suited to you.
How is Chin Augmentation surgery performed?
The chin augmentation surgery is most frequently performed using twilight IV sedation or general anaesthesia. This procedure takes from 1 to 2 hours to perform. Depending upon your facial structure the incisions will be placed as inconspicuously as possible. For chin implants the incision can either be where the gums and lip/facial skin meet or under the chin. The risk of infection is higher if an incision is placed within the mouth area, although a strict post-operative oral hygiene regimen can decrease this risk.
What should you expect post-operatively?
Although there is normally no extensive pain related to chin implantation, pain medication will be prescribed beforehand. You may feel a degree of numbness that should disappear within 1 to 3 months. You will continue to wear a support brace in the first few weeks while you sleep to allow your tissues and implant to heal in the desired position and prevent shifting.
Is there a lot of swelling involved with a chin implant?
There is considerable swelling associated with the trauma to the tissues, especially if there were screws involved. A lot of swelling should dissipate after the first two weeks although some swelling may be apparent for months.
When will the sutures be taken out and does this hurt?
The sutures, if any, will be removed in approximately 3 to 5 days. It is normal for your face to be very swollen for the first few days. The removal should not hurt extensively although your doctor may feel the implant through your facial tissues and this may hurt a little.
Will there be scarring? If so, where will the scars be located?
This depends on the incision choice by you and your doctor. It is quite possible to have implants inserted with no visible scars whatsoever.
How long is the recovery period?
You can expect to resume regular activities in about 1 to 2 weeks. Exercise should be reserved for after the third week. There will still be swelling and a support will be worn at night to alleviate tissue stress and to support the healing tissues correctly. Most patients return to work within a week or two.
How long before the results are visible?
The results are immediate, although you may think that the implant is too big at first glance. Give your mind time to recognise the difference between swelling and augmentation. The final result should be evident in a few months.
What are the risks of Chin Augmentation surgery?
There is a chance of haematoma (blood clots), numbness from nerve damage and hyper-pigmentation (permanent discolourations) caused by bruising – although there is rarely bruising with facial implants. There is the risk of the implant shifting which results in additional surgery to reposition the implant. There is also a chance of asymmetry from tissues healing differently.
How long does a chin implant last?
The silicone chin implants are made to last your lifetime, especially if the implants are the harder variety and screwed into place – the risk of shifting is very small.
Chin Reduction can be helpful in balancing the proportions of the chin and the lower face with the rest of the face. The entire operation is performed from within the mouth and no external incisions are necessary. An incision is made behind the lower lip and the chin bone is cut or ground down to its new, smaller shape.
Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.
See your doctor for further information.
