Chin Implantation

What do chin implants look like?

Chin implants can correct a weak chin, strengthen the appearance of a receding chin or improve the overall appearance of your face and profile by restoring balance. The implant itself comes in various shapes and sizes. The shape and size of chin implants varies depending on the projection of chin and the patient's desired face (U- or V-shaped). The proper size of traditional or extended types of implant will be chosen for longer face, projected and attractive chin and anterior jawlines. The chin implant is placed over the existing bone structure of your lower jaw to increase its dimensions and produce your desired result.

The operation

The artificial implant sits just above the mandibular bone and gives a permanent boost to the strength and definition of the chin. This augmentation method can give patients a pleasing, well-proportioned look that seems completely natural. A cosmetic chin enlargement procedure is generally performed on an outpatient basis at the surgeon's facility. The length of time the procedure takes about an hour. I prefer using Intravenous sedation with local anesthesia. It can be used as an adjunctive procedure to lower face lifting and liposuction for correction of double chin.

The incision created during the operation are made either underneath the chin or inside of the mouth between the gum and lower lip. There will be no visible scarring if the chin implant is placed via an incision in your mouth. There may be a very small scar if the implant is placed via an incision under your chin. The chin implant is inserted and positioned in front of the jawbone. The surgeon then checks its appearance for proper balance with other facial features and may adjust or modify the implant to ensure the proper look is achieved. Then the chin implant is sutured into place, and the procedure is complete. Sutures inside the mouth or under the chin will dissolve spontaneously after about 10 days. If the incision was done through the mouth, you may have to eat a bland, soft diet for a few days to give the gums time to heal. Baby toothbrush is used to clean up your teeth. The sutures in the mouth typically self-dissolve in one or two weeks. Rinsing with salt water or mouthwash following chin surgery is recommended. In general, return to work and other normal activity can occur within a week.

Complications

Complications with chin implantation are rare. Bruising and swelling that can last up to 2 weeks should be expected after the procedure which cold pack compression is usually helpful. Other risks include migration of the chin implant at later time may require a second procedure to adjust the implant into proper alignment. Infection poses a risk but can usually be effectively controlled with antibiotics. Since chin implant surgery can potentially stretch a nerve, post-surgery numbness of the lower lip and chin is a rare side effect which lasts for a few weeks. In general, return to work and other normal activity can occur within a week.

Surgery information

Prices: Chin Implantation 15,000 THB, either placement from inside mouth or below chin

Anesthesia: Intravenous Sedative Injection (Put to Sleep) plus Local Anesthesia
Surgery hour: about 3 hours
Hospitalization: Not necessary. Bandage is wrapped around lateral sides of face for 12 hrs after operation to prevent bleeding and hematoma.
Stitch removal: Not necessary (because absorbable stitches are used)
Recovery time: Return to work in 1-week time and daily activity and water exposure after 3 days
Swelling: Major swellings and bruising at lateral face will go down within 2 weeks.