Aesthetic chin surgery is performed to improve the balance of your facial profile and correct a 'weak' chin. Chin augmentation with implants is the procedure of choice for most patients with normally functioning teeth and jaw development. A biocompatible implant is placed over the bone structure of the lower jaw, augmenting the dimensions of your jaw. Depending on the region augmented, you can create a stronger and/or wider chin, and even lengthen your face.

Chin implants, though largely overshadowed by other, more popular surgeries, can be an excellent solution for individuals who wish to augment the size and shape of their chin. If you are unsure exactly what chin implants are, or if you are wondering about the price range for chin implant surgery, becoming educated about the procedure is the all-important first step toward enhancing your appearance with a chin implant.

CHIN IMPLANT CANDIDATES

Chin enlargement with chin implants provides benefit to individuals who have a recessed chin and who may also have a prominent nose. Cosmetic chin surgery adds definition to the jaw and balances the appearance of a large nose. Chin implants are often used in conjunction with Rhinoplasty( NOSE JOB ) for maximum aesthetic effect.

WHAT DO CHIN IMPLANTS LOOK LIKE?

The look of chin implants varies according to the material they are made of. Preformed chin implants, such as those made with silicone, are shaped a little like the narrow chin guard of a sports helmet. The cosmetic surgeon my further carve the implant to adjust the shape for a custom fit. Once in place, the chin implant should create a strong, natural-looking jaw line.

A cosmetic chin enlargement procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis. The length of time the procedure takes depends on several factors, but is generally from 45 minutes to an hour and a half. Depending on the surgeon’s and the patient’s preference, local or general anesthesia may be used.

CHIN IMPLANTS STANDARD PROCEDURE TECHNIQUES

There are several options available for aesthetic chin surgery. Implants of multiple shapes, sizes and materials are available, and are chosen depending on the changes desired and the technique utilized. To perform aesthetic chin surgery, the incision is made and a pocket designed to accommodate the implant directly over the bone along the lower jaw. Solid silicone implants can be placed through a small incision under the chin or an incision inside the mouth . The chin implant is secured in place either by designing a well-fitting pocket, or affixing it to soft tissue or bone. The incision is closed, completing the chin augmentation. Usually the entire operation takes about 30-45 minutes to complete, unless other procedures are being performed in addition to the aesthetic chin surgery. Tape is often applied to the skin to assist in holding the implant in place during the normal swelling after surgery.

CHIN IMPLANTS BENEFITS/ADVANTAGES/OPTIONS

• Permanent way to achieve a strong chin ( as opposed to temporary fillers)
• May easily be performed with other procedures (eg: nose surgery/rhinoplasty)
• Multiple chin implant choices are available to achieve your desired look
• Intra-oral or direct surgical approaches available

When considering aesthetic chin surgery with implant, you should be aware that certain patients are better served with other surgical approaches. If you have a severely weak chin, or abnormally functioning jaw, and have a longer recovery than chin surgery with chin implants, they can achieve results not attainable with implants alone. To decide which procedure is right for you, it is best to seek consultation with Dr. Karaca.

CHIN IMPLANTS RISK/COMPLICATIONS/PATIENT SAFETY

• Sensation to the chin may be temporarily or permanently altered by the implant
• The chin implant can be shifted, especially in the early stages after surgery
• Avoid contact sports until you are fully healed
• If the chin implant becomes infected, removal may be necessary . The implant is then replaced at a later date.

CHIN SURGERY RECOVERY PROCESS

The usual recovery after aesthetic chin surgery depends on the surgical approach utilized and if other procedures are performed at the same time. In general, from a chin augmentation alone, you will be active around the house the evening of surgery, but your lower lip will be ‘asleep’ similar to after a visit to the dentist. This sensation returns overnight, and your chin will feel mildly sore and swollen. Prescriptions for antibiotics and pain medicines may be provided, and you should maintain light activities. You may be given a garment or your chin may be taped to help maintain the chin implant position during the selling phase after surgery. Keeping your head elevated helps swelling resolve sooner. If your chin augmentation was performed through the mouth, you will be restricted to a liquid or soft diet for a few days until the gums have healed. You will rinse your mouth after eating to keep the sutures clean, and these will dissolve on their own after several weeks. If your cosmetic chin surgery was performed with a small incision under your chin, sutures are normally removed after 4-6 days.