Chin Implants

Chin implants are used to reshape, reconstruct or rejuvenate a patient’s facial features, mainly focusing on the jaw and chin area. It is perfect for people who have a weak, receding chin. It also helps correct facial asymmetry and deformities due to injury or congenital disorders.

There are currently two materials available for use in Chin Implant surgery. The primary and most reliable material used in the surgery today is Silicone. Its main advantage is that it is very easily molded into any shape and would feel and look like an extension of the bone.

A sliding genioplasty involves cutting the chin bone itself and repositioning it using titanium plate anchors. This eliminates the risk of implant shifting position and avoiding post-op asymmetry. The possibility of implant infection is also drastically reduced and generally, there are better chances for the final results to look more natural.

CANDIDACY

Anyone looking to change the size and shape of their chin are a good candidate for chin implants. Since it is known to improve the overall look of the face, chin implants or sliding genioplasty are generally done in conjunction with other cosmetic face surgery such as a face lift or cheek implants.

CONSULTATION INFORMATION

One of the most common misconceptions surrounding chin implants is that some people view it as a fat loss or anti-aging operation. In reality, this procedure is designed to simply change the shape of the patient’s chin and jaw area, and any anti-aging or fat loss benefits that the patient may get out if it is simply a side effect. It is important for the doctor to address the patient’s goal from the very first consultation.

PRE-OP PREPARATION

Preparations for chin implants or sliding genioplasty are very minimal. Patients need to avoid taking vitamin E or any non-Tylenol products prior to the procedure because they can promote bleeding and may complicate recovery.

The most important aspect of a patient’s preparation is, getting an in-depth consultation with their doctor to see if they have enough experience and expertise needed to meet the cosmetic requests. This step is crucial in the process and can drastically impact the final result.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

Chin implants start from $1000, but the price can change by the level of detail in which the implants are customized to. Patients should keep in mind that the more drastic change they want, the more complicated and costly the procedure will be.

RISKS AND LIMITATIONS

Just like most plastic surgery procedures, there are some risks involved. Fortunately, chin implants generally have a less chance of causing negative side effects, which may include:

• Loss of sensation on the lip area, which is caused when a nerve is damaged while placing the implants. However, on rare occasions this can be permanent.
• If the mental nerve gets pinched because the surgeon wasn’t properly trained, chronic nerve pain may be experienced
• Infection may happen in which antibiotics are given to the patient. The implants may have to be removed in order to allow the infection to heal.

RECOVERY EXPECTATIONS

During recovery, patients are encouraged to avoid touching the implants for at least a month after the operation, as it may cause deformities or surface irregularity. On average, the majority of swelling and bruising should subside within a month. Mouth movements will also feel restricted for the first few months.

There will also be discomfort and soreness around the treated area for a few weeks, which can easily be curbed with pain medication. Patients may be advised to stick to a liquid or soft diet for a few days after the procedure. Patients will see results usually within 3-4 months.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT

Chin implants are a great procedure for anyone who wants to change or enhance the contours of their face. It is important however, that patients have the right goals and expectations prior to the procedure. Chin implant surgery is not specifically designed to remove aging effects or to make your face look slimmer.

Like most cosmetic surgery procedures, getting a chin implant is no different in that, it is indeed a permanent change. Making changes or reversing the results is never as simple as it seems. A long deliberation and extensive research on your doctor is required. Don’t just take a friendly face and a board certification for an answer. Instead, make sure the surgeon has good experience in doing chin implants by looking at their patient before and after pictures.

Written by Cosmetic Town Editorial Team based on an exclusive interview provided by Dr. Grigoriy Mashkevich in New York, NY