Why Chin Augmentation

Chin augmentation, also referred to as mentoplasty, is the surgery to build up a receding chin or otherwise reshape the jaw line. During chin augmentation surgery, a chin implant is placed into the chin area in order to improve the appearance of the jaw and to achieve better facial harmony. This surgery can have a strong impact on the appearance and balance of the overall facial features. A weak chin, for example, may make a large nose appear even larger, and increasing the size of the chin can help to balance out the nose. For this reason, chin augmentation is often combined with rhinoplasty surgery.

Chin implants are made from a variety of materials and come in different shapes and sizes. The most commonly used chin implants are made of soft silicone or Goretex. Dr. Hamilton typically uses a material called mersilene mesh. This material allows for in growth of your own natural tissues providing a more natural look and a softer feel. Another option for chin augmentation is genioplasty, a surgical procedure which advances the chin bone to create a more prominent chin.

Chin augmentation may be right for you if you are bothered by a weak or receding chin and would like to add prominence to the chin or jaw area. If you are considering chin augmentation, it’s important that you have realistic expectations for your surgery’s outcome and that you be in good physical health. Learn more about chin augmentation here.

Chin Augmentation Expectations

Before & After Photos Chin Augmentation

Dr. Hamilton typically performs chin augmentation in a surgery center or hospital facility. The surgical time averages thirty minutes to one hour, with either local anesthesia and sedation or general anesthesia being used. During the surgery, a very small incision is made which may be located under the chin area or on the inside of the mouth along the lower lip. Dr. Hamilton will create a “pocket” in the tissue over the jawbone and insert an implant of the appropriate size and shape. The incision will then be closed and the chin may be taped.

After chin augmentation surgery, patients can expect some swelling and bruising. Swelling may initially make facial movements such as smiling and talking difficult. If incisions are made on the inside of the mouth, dietary restrictions may be required. Patients may also experience some discomfort during the first few days of recovery and this can be alleviated with prescription pain medication if necessary. If surface stitches are used instead of dissolvable sutures, they will be removed after five to seven days. It will take approximately one week after the chin augmentation procedure before work and other normal activities can be resumed and six week before resuming more strenuous activities that may bump or jar the face.

Dr. Mark Hamilton, M.D., FACS, is a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in facial plastic and reconstructive surgery. He has extensive experience and skill in chin augmentation and other cosmetic facial procedures and is able to produce beautiful, balanced results for the chin and other areas of the face. To schedule a consultation at his Indianapolis area office, please call (800) 597-3223.

For Post Operative Instructions for Chin Augmentation Surgery Click Here