Chin Implant Risks

A balanced and attractive face is often associated with a well-defined jaw. Through the placement of a customized chin implant, a cosmetic surgeon can improve the appearance of a weak or recessed chin.

Chin enhancement surgery, also called a chin implant or genioplasty, works by improving the contours of the chin, neck and jawline. The surgical procedure typically involves the placement of an implant around the patient’s existing chin bone. This is done in order to augment the size and shape of the chin and give the patient a more naturally attractive face. When the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon, it can provide the patient with a permanent solution to improve a weak or recessed chin.

If you are bothered by a recessed or weak chin or if you feel that your face lacks proportion and symmetry, you may be a good candidate for chin implant surgery. The procedure can help patients feel more confident with their appearance through:

• Improved facial symmetry by bringing the chin into better proportion with other facial features
• Correcting the appearance of a weak or recessed chin
• Improving neck and jawline definition
• Helping to reduce the appearance of an overly full or double chin which is caused by a small chin bone

Chin implant surgery is usually an outpatient procedure and is performed under a general anesthesia or using a local anesthesia with sedation. A small incision is made either inside the mouth or below the chin. The cosmetic surgeon then uses the incision to create space for the chin implant and securely attaches it around the existing chin bone.

It typically takes less than an hour to complete chin implant surgery. If the patient is having additional procedures completed, however, the total time for surgery will fluctuate. Following the placement of the implant, the incision is closed with sutures and the chin is then bandaged.

Chin implants are small, solid devices created from biocompatible material, silicone is often used. The device is then molded to fit securely around the patient’s chin bone. Chin implants vary in size and contour. The cosmetic surgeon will aid in the selection of an implant that helps achieve the desired outcome while also looking natural.

Once inserted, the chin implant feels similar to a natural chin bone. When the procedure is performed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, it is nearly impossible to determine if a patient had a chin augmentation.

Most chin augmentation patients experience limited downtime during their recovery. Patients are often able to return to desk work and most other regular activities within a week. Any discomfort the patient experiences is usually minor and can be controlled using an over-the-counter pain medication and a cold compresses.

Following the procedure, patients need to sleep face-up and keep their head elevated for at least two weeks. This helps to control any post-op swelling and protect the incisions while they heal. The cosmetic surgeon may also require you to follow a liquid diet for a day or two following surgery. It is usually safe to resume strenuous activity within three to four weeks. It is critical to follow your surgeon’s instructions during the recovery process for proper healing and to ensure you can enjoy the results as soon as possible.

For most patients, the results are noticeable and look close to final within a month of surgery. Most surgeons consider the results final after about three months, this allows for any residual swelling to subside.

Chin Implant Surgery Risks

When it is performed by a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon, there are very few complications associated with chin augmentations. Some of the potential risks include infection, hematoma or internal bleeding, implant shifting, bad scarring, and anesthesia side effects.

To help minimize the potential risks, select a cosmetic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. These surgeons have undergone extensive fellowship training, operate in accredited surgical facilities, and use a board certified anesthesiologist.

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