Chin Augmentation

Chin augmentation is a procedure that helps to strengthen the chin and the lower jaw. Through different methods incorporating implants, fat transfers, bone grafting, dermal fillers, and more, Dr. Daniel Markmann can restructure the chin and sculpt an appearance that patients can be proud of.

If you would like to explore your chin augmentation possibilities, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Markmann at Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery. Our practice has helped countless patients in the Baltimore area achieve their face and body image goals with personalized, professional care. If you have any questions, please feel free to call our Ellicott City office at (410) 465-3600.

About Chin Augmentation

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure designed to improve the size and shape of the chin. This enhancement can dramatically influence overall facial aesthetics by providing improved definition and balance to the facial features. ⁽¹⁾ A well-defined chin creates a strong jawline and contributes to a harmonious profile. Individuals may choose to undergo chin augmentation for various reasons, including dissatisfaction with the current shape or size of their chin, and the desire for a more proportional appearance in relation to other facial features, all of which will enhance their self-esteem.

This treatment is an evolving practice that has gained popularity over the years. Historically, the procedure was primarily performed using chin implants; however, newer techniques have emerged to meet patient desires for minimally invasive treatments. The anatomy relevant to chin augmentation includes the mandible, which forms the lower jaw, and the surrounding facial structures like the lips, cheeks, and neck. ⁽¹⁾

In addition to aesthetic enhancements, chin augmentation can help balance the proportions of the face, especially in individuals with a “receding chin.” Many people undergoing cosmetic surgery hope to achieve a more youthful appearance, attract more social interest, and boost personal confidence levels.

Benefits

Undergoing chin augmentation can offer numerous benefits. At Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, our patients typically experience:

Candidates

Men and women who may benefit from chin augmentation include those who express concerns about their chin’s size or definition. Ideal candidates are in good overall health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the procedure. Particular attributes that make someone a good candidate include a weak or recessed chin, a desire for improved facial harmony, good skin elasticity, and good overall health. A consultation with Dr. Markmann at Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery can help determine individual candidacy based on a physical examination and a discussion about desired results.

Personal Consultation

A personal consultation is an essential first step in the chin augmentation journey. During this session, Dr. Markmann will discuss your medical history, facial structure, and aesthetic goals. He will conduct a thorough examination of your chin as well as facial and neck aesthetics. This will allow him to recommend the best chin augmentation technique for you, whether surgical or non-surgical. You will also have the opportunity to view before and after photos of previous patients, allowing you to set realistic expectations for your outcome.

Preparation

Once you decide to move forward with chin augmentation, you will receive detailed preoperative instructions. These steps will optimize your outcome and ensure a smooth procedure. These will be unique for each patient, but you can expect to:

Procedure

Chin implant surgery may use either local anesthesia or general anesthesia depending on the surgical case. Once anesthesia is administered, Dr. Markmann will make an incision below the chin or on the inside of the lower lip. Incisions are placed in specific locations so scars are easily hidden. ⁽²⁾

After an incision is made, some connective tissue will be cleared to create a pocket. In some cases, some bone may be shaved away to create a groove for the implant. Once the site is prepared, the implant will be carefully placed into the chin. Dr. Markmann will take special measures to ensure that the implant is secured in place and creates the desired appearance. An experienced surgeon will create subtle results, yet dramatic enough to make a significant improvement to a person’s self-esteem.

Implants are only one of many methods available for chin augmentation. Many patients can see the improvements they want through non-surgical methods. Non-surgical chin augmentation methods are also an effective way to explore different chin appearances, as many are reversible and only semi-permanent. ⁽²⁾ Dermal fillers like hyaluronic acid, poly-L-lactic acid, calcium hydroxyapatite, polymethylmethacrylate, and others can be used to increase collagen and other skin-building proteins in certain parts of the body. When administering these treatments, your chin will be cleansed and receive a topical numbing cream. Dermal fillers are carefully injected into precise areas of the chin to achieve the desired contour. Chin augmentation through dermal fillers provides immediate results with little to no downtime.

Recovery

After the chin augmentation, patients may notice swelling and mild discomfort. Applying ice packs and keeping the head elevated is helpful during initial recovery to minimize pain, swelling, and bruising. Recovery times may vary significantly between surgical and non-surgical approaches.

Patients who undergo surgical augmentation are recommended to consume a soft or liquid diet for the first three days after treatment. This serves to avoid pressure around the chin and allow sutures to heal without disruption. There is generally some numbness and slight soreness around the implant at first, and there may be some bruising. These will all fade as you continue to heal. As with any implant surgery, it generally takes 6 months and even on rare occasions up to a full year for the entirety of the swelling to be gone and create an outcome that is soft, natural, and normal in feeling.

Results

The results of chin augmentation are often transformative, as patients enjoy substantially improved facial proportions, a well-defined jawline, and enhanced confidence. When performed meticulously, results appear natural and complement other facial features. Permanent surgical options yield lasting improvements, while non-surgical fillers may require annual touch-ups to maintain results.

Cost of Chin Augmentation in Baltimore

The cost of chin augmentation varies widely based on the selected technique and individual needs. Once you have an initial consultation with Dr. Markmann and he creates your specialized treatment plan, you will receive a price quote.

At Metamorphosis Plastic Surgery, we also offer financing plans for our patients. Our staff is happy to help you arrange a convenient payment plan. Take the first step toward your new chin today by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Markmann. If you have any questions about appointments, payments, pricing, our practice, the procedures we offer, or more, please feel free to call our Ellicott City office at (410) 465-3600 and request additional information.

FAQ

References

1. Harris WC, Raggio BS. Facial Chin Augmentation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554506/
2. Oranges CM, Vendela Grufman, Pietro, Fritsche E, Kalbermatten DF. Chin Augmentation Techniques: A Systematic Review. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2022;151(5):758e771e. doi:https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0000000000010079