Chin Augmentation – Chin Implant

Using her expertise and knowledge, Irvine cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Marguerite Bernett, offers chin augmentation surgery with or without an implant. During consultation, you and Dr. Bernett will have the opportunity to discuss your personal cosmetic goals and if a chin implant will be necessary to achieve your desired look. For chin augmentations without an implant, called Sliding Genioplasty, the patient’s bone is manipulated and used to create the look desired. The best candidate for chin augmentation surgery is someone who would like to define their neck and chin line or develop a strong profile.

Good candidates for chin augmentation surgery are men and women who demonstrate:

• A recessed or ‘weak’ chin
• A lack of definition to the neck
• A weak profile due to a limited chin structure
• A facial imbalance as it pertains to structure

During the consultation, we will evaluate the origin of the chin shortness, determined by looking at the face and neck as well as the position of the teeth. In some patients, a severe overbite (lower teeth behind the upper teeth) may be present and the chin position may be a reflection of an overall shorter lower jaw. In these patients, other treatment options may be considered, including jaw surgery. In some cases, an X-ray in profile may be useful to look at the bone and the facial profile for treatment planning. For patients who simply need a chin implant only, the implant is positioned over the bone below the lips in a pocket that is created to hold the prosthesis in place. Scarring is usually not evident since the incisions are placed under the chin or within the lower lip. Liposuction of the chin and/or neck may be incorporated to help accentuate a more defined jawline.

Recovery for chin augmentation depends on the nature of the surgery. For chin implants, the recovery requires much less downtime than genioplasty or jaw surgery where the bone, teeth and jaw are manipulated. Swelling and bruising are common after all approaches. A chinstrap is usually used after surgery to control swelling and help the overlying tissues adapt to the implant or bone. When the chin bone is moved, there is usually a short period of lower lip numbness that resolves several weeks after surgery. The swelling and bruising will start to resolve 7-10 days after surgery, although this will vary between patients.

On average, the cost for chin augmentation surgery can range from $2,500 to $3,500. Factors that affect cost are the type of implants used or if there are other cosmetic procedures done in conjunction with the augmentation (such as genioplasty, jaw surgery, neck liposuction, etc.).

Chin augmentation surgery adds fullness and shape to the lower jaw. It helps create a stronger profile, and a more distinguished facial appearance for both men and women. If you have a recessed chin or feel your profile is weak due to a small chin, we encourage you to call our plastic surgery office today and schedule a consultation.