During chin implant surgery, doctors can augment the chin using various materials. These are inserted and molded onto the chin bone. The most commonly used materials are silicone, Gore-Textor Medpor.
Implants come in different sizes and shapes. Your surgeon will choose the best type that will suit your chin and achieve your aesthetic goals.
A chin implant surgery can increase the size of the chin to create a more defined and contoured jawline. It also helps patients with a recessed chin by creating better symmetry and balance with the rest of their facial features. The implant adds minimal height and width to the chin; it mainly brings the chin forward.
A typical chin implant surgery can last 30 minutes to an hour. It is either done under general anesthetic or local anesthetic together with an IV sedation. The surgeon will first make an incision under the chin or inside the mouth at the crease of the lower lip and gum. The latter reduces the appearance of any visible scarring once the site has healed. After the incision, a pocket is created by stretching the skin so that the implant can be inserted. The surgeon will then tuck the implant into the incision. They will mold it around the chin bone into position to create the desired effect. The surgeon will complete the procedure by stitching up the site and applying a surgical dressing.
After the surgery, patients need to recover for about seven days before returning to work. Any pain or discomfort can be alleviated by over-the-counter pain medication or an ice pack. For the first two weeks after surgery, doctors recommend keeping the head elevated when sleeping. Patients should avoid strenuous exercise for 3-4 weeks. The final results of the surgery can take three months as the swelling takes some time to subside. Results are permanent. Like most procedures, chin implant surgery also comes with some risks. These can include infections, hematoma, a shift in the implant, scarring, or an allergic reaction to the anesthetic. Besides chin implants, patients may opt for other ways to reshape and contour their chin. Other procedures include mandibular advancement, liposuction and chin reduction.
