Chin Surgery | David O. Smith, MD, FACS

Chin Surgery

Chin Surgery

Dr David Smith performs chin surgery commonly as a part of another procedure such as liposuction of the neck or as part of a rhinoplasty surgery. Traditionally a silastic implant is positioned through a small hidden incision inside the mouth. A very marked improvement is noted in this patient with rhinnoplasty nose surgery accompanied with a small chin implant. Sometimes we use a newer technique injecting fat injection into the chin from another area such as the abdomen. This only works for small augmentations.

See more chin augmentation before and after photos.

The following information is provided by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:

Chin Surgery

Chin surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone. Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery to a patient having nose surgery in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose. Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.

Surgical Placement of a Chin Implant

Insertion of a chin implant may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. During the procedure, the surgeon selects the proper size and shape implant to enhance your appearance and inserts it into a pocket over the front of the jawbone. The small incision to create the pocket and insert the implant is placed inside the mouth (along the lower lip) or in the skin just under the chin area.

Usually, the chin is taped after surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort. Sutures in the skin will be removed in five to seven days. If an intra-oral incision is used, the sutures will dissolve.

Recovering from Chin Surgery

You will experience some discomfort and swelling in the affected area for several days. It's normal to experience some temporary difficulty with smiling and talking. Black and blue marks may be visible around the chin and neck. Your plastic surgeon will instruct you about dental hygiene, eating and any restrictions to your activities after surgery.