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Chin surgery

Dr. Sophie Ricketts - Accreditation

Is Chin surgery for you?

Surgery can be performed on the chin to bring it forwards or move it back. Bringing the chin forwards, or making it larger can be with the use of an implant which is fixed with tiny screws to the jaw bone, or by cutting a shelf of bone and moving it forwards and fixing it with plates and screws. These two procedures have both advantages and disadvantages.

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FAQ

What is chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation, also known as mentoplasty or genioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that aims to improve the appearance of the chin by enhancing its size, shape, or proportion. This can be achieved through the use of implants, fillers, or by reshaping the existing bone structure. The procedure is typically performed by a plastic surgeon under local or general anaesthesia.

What are the risks and complications associated with chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation, also known as mentoplasty or genioplasty, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that can enhance the appearance of the chin and balance the facial features. The procedure involves the placement of an implant or the reshaping of the existing chin bone and can lead to improved self-confidence and a more aesthetically pleasing facial appearance. While it is important to be aware of the potential risks and complications associated with any surgical procedure, such occurrences are typically rare and can be minimized by working with an experienced, qualified plastic surgeon.

Some of the potential risks and complications of chin augmentation include infection, temporary numbness and decreased movement in the lower lip, and asymmetry. However, with proper preparation and simulation of likely results with imaging, risks are low and patients achieve their desired results. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with your plastic surgeon to make an informed decision about whether chin augmentation is right for you.

Who is a good candidate for chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation, also known as mentoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to enhance the shape, size, and appearance of the chin.

For people looking for a more balanced facial profile or jawline, chin augmentation can provide a solution. It is ideal for candidates who want to add definition to their jawline or to balance out other features on their face, such as the lips or nose. Candidates should be in good overall health with realistic expectations going into the procedure.

What is the recovery like after chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation is a popular cosmetic surgery that aims to improve the shape and appearance of the chin. The recovery period from this procedure can vary, but on average, it takes about a week or two for the incision in the mouth to heal. During the recovery phase, there may be some swelling and bruising, but this should subside over the first couple of weeks. Once the recovery is complete, patients can expect to see long-lasting results from their chin augmentation surgery.

Is Chin Augmentation Painful?

Chin augmentation, like any surgical procedure, can cause some discomfort and pain, but this is generally manageable. During the procedure, anaesthesia ensures you won’t feel any pain. Post-surgery, it is normal to experience some pain, swelling, and tenderness, which typically peak within the first few days and gradually subside over the following weeks. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help manage any discomfort, and additional measures like applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can aid in reducing swelling and pain. Most patients find that discomfort decreases significantly within the first few weeks, and any persistent, severe pain should be promptly addressed with your surgeon.

Will I Have Scars After Chin Augmentation?

Scarring after chin augmentation is typically minimal and strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible. For chin implants, incisions are often made inside the mouth, leaving no visible external scars. If an external incision is necessary, it is usually placed under the chin in a natural crease, where it is less noticeable. For sliding genioplasty, the incision is typically made inside the mouth as well, avoiding visible scarring. With proper care and following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, any scars should heal well and become less noticeable over time.

Can Chin Augmentation Be Combined with Other Procedures?

Yes, chin augmentation can be combined with other facial procedures to enhance overall facial harmony and achieve more comprehensive results. Commonly combined procedures include rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) to improve facial profile balance, facelifts to tighten and lift facial skin, neck liposuction to enhance jawline definition, and lip augmentation for a proportionate facial appearance. Combining these procedures in a single surgical session can reduce overall recovery time and provide more harmonious results. Discuss your objectives with Dr Sophie Ricketts to determine the best combination of procedures for your individual needs.

Is chin augmentation permanent?

Chin augmentation, whether through implants or sliding genioplasty, typically provides permanent results. Implants, made from materials like silicone or Medpor, are designed to be durable and can remain in place indefinitely, improving the chin’s size and shape effectively. Similarly, sliding genioplasty involves permanently reshaping the bone to achieve the desired projection. Implants are considered more ‘reversible’ than a genioplasty as the implant can generally be removed without significant issue. Whereas to reverse a genioplasty is more invasive.

Will I have visible scars after chin augmentation?

After chin augmentation, the visibility of scars depends on the specific technique used by your surgeon. For chin implants, incisions are typically made inside the mouth (intraoral) along the lower gum line or under the chin (submental), where they are strategically placed to minimise visibility. These locations ensure that scars are either hidden within natural creases or inside the mouth, making them generally inconspicuous. The size and placement of the incisions are carefully planned to achieve optimal results while minimising scar visibility. Dr Sophie Ricketts will discuss the placement of incisions and potential scarring during your consultation, providing personalised advice based on your anatomy and surgical plan.

Can chin augmentation be combined with other procedures?

Yes, chin augmentation can be combined with other cosmetic procedures to help improve overall facial aesthetics. Commonly paired procedures include rhinoplasty to help improve facial balance from the front and side views; facelift to address loosening skin and redefine the jawline; neck liposuction for enhanced neck contour; cheek augmentation for improved facial proportions; and orthognathic surgery for comprehensive correction of dental and skeletal issues affecting facial harmony. Combining these procedures allows for a more integrated approach to achieving desired facial proportions and symmetry, tailored to individual aesthetic objectives. Your plastic surgeon will assess your specific needs and recommend a customised treatment plan to optimise results and recovery.