Chin and Facial Implants
Chin Implants or Reduction
Looking in the mirror, many patients may be concerned that their face is ‘off-balance’ and concentrate on the size and shape of their nose, their cheeks, or their ears. In fact, it is your chin that plays a big part in your overall facial harmony. Reshaping the chin with a chin augmentation procedure can improve facial balance, both from the front and the profile.
Am I a Candidate for Chin Augmentation?
If you feel you have a ‘weak’ or under-projected chin, you may be a candidate for a chin augmentation with implants. A ‘weak’ chin is characterized by the jaw bone lying behind the lips, and therefore the lower lip becomes more prominent than the chin. You can best determine if you have a ‘weak’ or under-projected chin from the profile of your face. A ’weak’ chin can leave the jawline looking less defined and in some cases give the illusion of an older-looking neck.
During your consultation with board-certified New Jersey plastic surgeon, Dr. Franckle, we will take photos of your profile and discuss if you are an ideal candidate for a chin augmentation procedure.
Chin Augmentation and Rhinoplasty
Surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty, like Dr. Franckle, often suggest a chin augmentation to enhance the results of a rhinoplasty (nose surgery) procedure. Many times the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the professed size of the nose. A chin augmentation, in addition to a rhinoplasty, can help create facial balance and harmony. Fortunately, both procedures can easily be performed within the same surgery.
Additional Facial Implants – Cheek Implants
Similar to chin augmentation, some patients require a more prominent cheek contour in order to accomplish facial balance. If you are experiencing reduced cheek tissue or a reduced cheekbone contour due to genetics or as a result of aging, you may be a candidate for a cheek implant procedure.
Under local anesthesia, a small incision is placed under the upper lip, in the lower eyelid or in the hairline, and a pre-shaped implant is placed next to the cheekbone. Initial swelling occurs and generally dissipates over the first month or two. Discomfort is mild and easily controlled with oral medications.
If you are looking for enhanced cheek contours without the use of implants, cheek enhancement using Sculptra Aesthetic or fat-grafting are also options to consider.
The Chin Augmentation Procedure
A chin augmentation reshapes the chin by enhancement with an implant. Under local anesthesia, an incision is carefully placed inside the lower lip (no scars approach) or within the natural crease under the chin (because of the exact placement of the incision, a scar is barely visible). Dr. Franckle then carefully stretches the tissue around the chin, creating a space for the implant to be inserted. The implant adheres to the jawbone and looks and feels like a real chin. Submental liposuction may be suggested in conjunction with the chin augmentation procedure to further the result of a well-defined chin profile and distinct jawline.
Recovery after a Chin Augmentation
You will be wrapped in a dressing for the first 48 hours after surgery. This dressing should be undisturbed, and chewing will probably be limited. A liquid or soft food diet is recommended for the first couple of days post-operative. Discomfort is mild and can easily be controlled with oral medication. A stretched, tight sensation around the chin is common after the surgery, but this usually subsides within a few days. Sutures are removed several days after surgery.
Cost
The cost for a facial implant procedure varies from patient to patient. Generally speaking, a facial implant procedure cost will range from $3,000-$5,000.
We offer a number of patient financing options through reputable financial companies to help you plan for your chin augmentation. Before you apply, we recommend that you first discuss your needs with our patient coordinator, Bianca. She can help you with the application process and discuss any special offers that come up from time to time. You can visit our financing page to get more information on our programs. We also accept personal checks, cashier’s checks, cash, Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. We want to make the process as simple for you as possible, so please reach out to us in advance if you have any questions.
How to Prepare
In preparation for your chin augmentation, Dr. Franckle may advise you do the following:
- Take a medical evaluation or get lab tested
- Avoid smoking
- Take certain medications or adjust the medications you are currently taking
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, or herbal supplements that may increase bleeding
In addition to Dr. Franckle’s preparation recommendations, you’ll also want to make practical arrangements for your recovery, including contacting a friend or family member who can drive you to and from your procedure. Some further suggestions for properly preparing for the aftermath of your surgery include gathering the following care items:
- Prescription drugs and antibiotics
- Over the counter pain medications
- Loose-fitting clothes
- Gauze bandages
Aside from stocking up on supplies, you’ll want to avoid intaking any alcohol for at least 48 hours prior to your surgery. On the night before your chin augmentation, you should plan to get plenty of rest. To learn more about how to adequately prepare for your chin and facial implant procedure, contact Dr. Franckle.
