Chin Augmentation

A chin augmentation is best for patients who feel their chins are too small, or don’t fit into the natural angles of the face and neck.

Cosmetic surgeon, Dr. Markmann provides facial implants to his patients in the Baltimore area to enhance their facial contours. Through the use of silicone implants, this procedure strengthens the features of the lower jaw, and creates a more prominent jaw line. With implants of various lengths and sizes, certain implants can be chosen to compliment various techniques, and create the desired chin aesthetic.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

During chin augmentation, the implant is positioned over the bone below the lips. A pocket is created, which will hold the prosthesis in place. Sometimes the bone is shaved to create a groove for the implant. Incisions are commonly placed in two areas that can easily conceal scars – on the underside of the chin or inside the lip, just between where the lower lip meets the gum. The results after this procedure are almost always positive for patients. An experience surgeon will create subtle results, yet dramatic enough to make a significant improvement to a person’s self esteem.

DURING/AFTER SURGERY

The procedure is performed in an accredited surgical facility. It may last up to 2 hours. A liquid diet is usually recommended in the first 3 days to avoid any pressure around the chin as the sutures are sensitive until healed. The patient is allowed only light activities until the second week. There will be numbness on the area surrounding the implant. While this is normal, the sensation will gradually improve as weeks pass. As with any implant surgery, it generally takes up to a full year for the implant to settle into position and create a final outcome that is soft, natural and normal in feeling.

CHIN AUGMENTATION FAQS

Fatty Chin?

Chin augmentation is designed to emphasize the jaw line and create a balanced overall facial appearance. If there are excess fat deposits under the chin, which creates an impression of a double chin, liposuction may be performed. Before any cosmetic surgery, it is advised that the patient is close or already at their goal weight so it doesn’t compromise the positive results of surgery.

Sometimes, liposuction is sufficient as it already defines the chin without ever needing an implant.

Temporary Numbness?

Yes. With the implant and surrounding tissues adjusting to its new position, there will be a loss of sensation around the chin area and the skin around it will feel tighter than usual. This is an expected reaction post-surgery and shouldn’t be a cause of anxiety. Eventually, sensitivity will return to normal, but it may take several months before the patient can regain sensation.

The improvement will be gradual during the course of a year.

Obvious Scars?

The incisions made during a chin augmentation procedure are placed inconspicuously within the inside of the lip or under the chin, therefore, there is limited to no scarring that occurs with this procedure.

Mentoplasty Vs. Genioplasty?

Mentoplasty is a procedure that adds fullness and shape to the chin. Genioplasty, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure that reconstructs the chin bone. Both procedures may be done at the same time as a combination surgery or as a single procedure depending on the patient’s chin condition and aesthetic goals.

Genioplasty is not always cosmetic in nature as there are conditions in which the procedure resolves a patient’s bite or other medical concern.