How the procedure is done
In a minor chin augmentation, an implant is placed under the skin to strengthen the appearance of the chin from the profile view. During the procedure, the surgeon selects the proper size and shape implant to enhance your appearance. Once the implant is chosen, the implant is inserted it into a pocket over the front of the jawbone. A small incision is made inside the mouth, along the lower lip, to create the pocket where the implant is placed.

A major chin augmentation may require bone surgery called an osteotomy. In this case, the chin bone is cut and moved forward to its new position.

A less common procedure is a chin reduction. Similarly, an incision is made behind the lower lip and the chin bone is cut or ground down to its new, smaller shape.

After the surgery there may be some elastic tape placed on the face to help hold the implants in place while they heal. It is helpful to use cold compresses for the few days immediately after the surgery to reduce the swelling. During this time, there may be some discomfort which usually responds quite quickly to pain medication.

Who is a good candidate
The best candidates for chin augmentation are patients with weak or receding chins, but with a normal dental bite.

After surgery
There is some discomfort and soreness, which is easily controlled by medication. A liquid diet may be advised for the first two days. Light activity can resume the same day as surgery.

Exciting new developments in chin augmentation include new implant shapes and textured surfaces, more and biocompatible implants. The face is now divided into zones and custom implants are prepared for the patient. This further introduces aesthetic enhancement into facial implant surgery over the conventional 4-sizes-fits-all philosophy of implant placement.

The implants are usually made of dimethalpolysiloxane which is a silicone compound. Occasionally other materials may be used. Prior to the surgery, the type, size, and method of placement of the implants will be discussed carefully with you.

Before		After

Post Operative Activity
It is expected that you will remain somewhat quiet and sedentary for the week post-operatively. This is to reduce the swelling and reduce the chances of bleeding in the area around the implant. After the first week, in the absence of other procedures that require a longer convalescence, normal activity may be resumed although it would be wise to avoid sports or exercise for up to three weeks after the surgery.