Surgery of the Chin

A well-defined chin helps give balance to the face and creates a major part of one's profile. When people look in the mirror, most focus on the size and shape of their noses, their ears, sagging jowls, or fine wrinkling of the skin. But even though few examine their chins with the same discerning eye, having a “weak chin” is certainly not an asset. Surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty, or surgery of the nose, are often the first to suggest that changes in chin size or shape may enhance a profile as much as rhinoplasty. It is common for the facial plastic surgeon to recommend chin surgery in addition to nose surgery when the surgeon sees that chin augmentation is necessary to achieve facial balance and harmony. Fortunately, this is a relatively straightforward procedure that can make a major difference.

	Understanding Implants
	To augment the chin, Dr. Ahn begins by making an incision either in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside the mouth, where gum and lower lip meet. By gently stretching this tissue, Dr. Ahn creates a space where an implant can be inserted. This implant, made of synthetic material that feels much like natural tissue normally found in the chin, is available in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. This allows custom fitting of the implant to the configurations of the patient's face. After implantation, Dr. Ahn uses fine sutures to close the incision. When the incision is inside the mouth, no scarring is visible. If the incision is under the chin, the scar is usually imperceptible.

Is Chin Surgery For You?

A pleasing, balanced profile can be achieved by inserting an implant to build up a receding chin. The result can be greater facial harmony and an increase in self-confidence. Another possibility for improvement through chin surgery is submental liposuction in which excess fatty tissue is removed to redefine the chin or neckline.

Your consultation with Dr. Ahn can help you decide on the type of surgery that addresses your concerns. He can also provide information on new medical techniques for chin surgery and offer recommendations for supplementary surgery that can ensure the greatest improvement.

What to Expect After the Surgery

Immediately after surgery, Dr. Ahn usually applies a dressing that will remain in place for two to three days. You will experience some tenderness. Post-operative discomfort can be controlled with prescribed medications. Chewing will probably be limited immediately after chin surgery, and a liquid and soft food diet may be required for a few days after surgery. Most patients feel a stretched, tight sensation after the surgery, but this usually subsides in a week.

Q-What is chin implantation?
A-Chin implantation is a procedure which can improve a weak or receding chin with the use of an implant. This surgery can create a more defined chin as well as better facial balance. Chin implantation is often performed in combination with rhinoplasty to achieve the best facial harmony. The chin may also be improve through submental liposuction. This procedure redefines the chin or neckline through the removal of excess fatty tissue.

Q-What are chin implants made of?
A-Chin implants are made of a synthetic material and come in a variety of sizes and shapes which can be customized to the individual patient. They feel much like the natural tissue found normally in the chin.

Q-Who is a candidate for chin implantation?
A-Individuals looking to improve a weak or receding chin may be good candidates for chin implantation. Submental liposuction may also be an option for those seeking better definition in the chin and neckline.

Q-What will happen during a consultation for chin implantation?
A-During the consultation for chin implantation, Dr. Ahn will discuss the available treatment options including the benefits, the expected outcomes, any alternatives, and new medical techniques for chin surgery. He will help you to decide on the type of surgery to meet your needs and recommend any supplementary surgery that may help to ensure the greatest improvement. Any questions or concerns that you have will be addressed. Digital photography and computer imaging cam be used to demonstrate your potential results.

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