Chin Implants For Facial Harmony

One of the most straightforward and most satisfying procedures in plastic surgery is chin augmentation. Enhancement of the deficient chin can make a dramatic difference in one's facial profile.

Like the nose, although not as well appreciated, the position of the chin not only plays an important role on the silhouette of the face and neck but helps form an impression (accurate or not) on one's character. A well-defined chin that is in proportion to the rest of the face suggests favorable character traits and portrays an image of strength. A weak or recessed chin, conversely, can give the opposite impression.

Whether chin augmentation is beneficial to one's facial profile depends on its proportional relationship to the rest of the face. This is done exclusively by a profile assessment where a straight line is dropped down from the junction of the nose and forehead with the face looking straight forward and as level as possible. Where the most projecting point of the chin rests relative to this vertical line determines whether chin augmentation is beneficial, and how much, to one's facial profile. If it rests anywhere behind this line, then chin augmentation will be helpful. The amount that the chin must be brought forward depends on how many millimeters it sits behind this line. The size or thickness of the chin implant is determined by this number of millimeters.

The most common method of chin augmentation is with a silicone rubber (silastic) implant. Implant placement is very simple and uncomplicated. Through a small incision under the chin, the implant can be inserted onto the bone and screwed into place. This direct approach makes it easy to place a chin implant of any size or shape, of which there are numerous styles and thicknesses from which to choose. My perdoanl favorite for chin implants is the extended or anatomic style which has a natural blending into the surrounding jaw bone. The results from chin implant augmentation are instantaneous although there will be some temporary swelling (no bruising) from having to lift up the chin muscle to put it into place.

Complications from chin implants are quite few. Chin implant asymmetry is the most common but is avoidable if the implant is secured into position with a small screw at the time of surgery. Movement of the chin implant after surgery results in this complication. Bleeding and infection, while possible, I have yet to see. Sometimes, the chin and lower lip will 'move funny' for awhile afterwards due to temporary swelling and the muscle being manipulated. For a short period of time, the movement of the lower lip may be affected by the temporary stiffness of the chin. As after surgery swelling is temporary, this problem solves itself in a few weeks.

Chin enhancement is a wonderful procedure that is relatively simple surgery with an immediate and dramatic effect on improving one's facial balance and proportion.