Chin surgery, or mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone.
 

Plastic surgery, and other minor office procedures, can often be performed on the lower jaw line and chin area to improve proportions of the face and to help with one's confidence and self-esteem. These types of interventions are frequently suggested by board-certified plastic surgeons to improve the harmony of facial features and improve the chin/jaw/cheek/forehead balance.

Sometimes bone from the jaw itself can be moved forward in an operation called a mentoplasty or genioplasty. Alternatively, shaped silicone implants can be used to give more projection to the chin. Conversely, bone can be removed to decrease an overly projecting chin. Furthermore, modifications to the upper and/or lower jaw can be advised for improved chewing dynamics and occlusion – or how the teeth fit together. These operations can range from simple to very complex.

Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery or procedures to a patient having a rhinoplasty in order to achieve better facial proportions, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose.

Types of chin surgeries

Surgery can be performed on the chin to alter or improve its appearance. The two main types of chin surgery are either chin augmentation or chin reduction.

Chin augmentation/implants

Chin augmentation surgery is usually performed to augment an underprojected chin. Typically, this is accomplished by placement of an implant directly on the bone. A small incision is made either inside the mouth or underneath the skin of the chin. After the implant is placed, the incision is then closed with sutures. Mild swelling may occur for a few days, and patients usually are able to return to work within a week.

Chin reduction surgery

Chin reduction surgery, or chin shaving surgery, is performed to reduce a prominent or overprojected chin. The surgery is typically performed under general anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. A small incision is made either inside the mouth or underneath the skin of the chin. Excess bone is removed, and the chin is contoured to the desired shape. The incision is closed with sutures.

 

Who is a good candidate for chin surgery?

Chin surgery is a highly individualized procedure. It can be a life-changing procedure for patients who are self-conscious about their chin. This procedure should be done for yourself, not for someone else or to conform with any sort of ideal image.

In general, you may be a good chin surgery candidate if:

  •     You are physically healthy and at a stable weight
  •     You have realistic expectations
  •     You are a nonsmoker
  •     You are bothered by the appearance of your chin
  •     You have a chin that is too short or lack projection

If you're considering surgery, spend some time reviewing chin surgery photos and learning about what to expect during recovery. Preparation ahead of time helps patients have reasonable expectations and a smoother recovery

 

FAQ

 

What should I expect during my chin surgery recovery?

Following your chin surgery, gauze dressings or bandages may be applied to your incisions. An elastic bandage or compression garment may minimize swelling and support the chin as it heals following surgery. Alternatively, you may not have any dressings or bandages. If you have a chin implant placed through an incision inside your mouth, you may be placed on a liquid diet and/or given special mouth rinses.

You will be given specific instructions that may include:

  •     How to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery
  •     Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
  •     Specific concerns to look for at the surgical site or in your general health
  •     When to follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling decreases. Continue to follow your plastic surgeon's instructions and attend follow-up visits as scheduled.

 

 

 

 

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