Many people with weak chins never even notice it!  This may be because we tend to look at ourselves in the mirror straight on, instead of on profile.  Often if someone senses that something is “off,” they mistakenly believe that their nose is too big.  A “weak chin” can actually distort the appearance of other features, making them seem poorly proportioned. The absence of this strong centerpiece of facial architecture might cause a perfectly sized nose to seem oversized and the jaw to look jowly. To correct not only the chin but to also restore the aesthetic balance of the face, you might benefit from a chin implant.

A chin implant strengthens the front and center of the chin. It can also accentuate the angle of the jaw, creating a more defined profile. And, if you’ve always coveted a dimpled chin, a chin implant can create it.

Chin augmentation can be combined with other facial sculpting and rejuvenating procedures including rhinoplasty, facelift, and liposculpture (liposuction) of the jaw.  Chin augmentation is the most common add-on procedure in men having nasal or sinus surgery.  It allows them to “clean up” the over-the-tie area simultaneously and secretly since it doesn’t add “downtime.” 

The Procedure

Chin augmentation is performed under local anesthesia with IV sedation or general anesthesia, in either Dr. Yagoda’s office-based surgical facility or a hospital. The procedure usually takes about an hour. Unlike many surgeons who use implants that the body walls-off as foreign, Dr. Yagoda uses an implant that integrates into your own body.  It is made out of the same material used for knee, hip and shoulder implants.

An incision is made either under the chin or, sometimes, inside the mouth. The implant is placed through the incision that is then closed with sutures. Depending on where the incision is made, the resulting scar is either externally invisible or carefully hidden.

Recovery

You’ll probably be able to return to work in about a week. During the first week, you can walk as much as you like. You can use a stationary bike or treadmill during the second week, and return to full activities by the third post-surgical week.

Risks and Complications

Like all surgery, chin augmentation carries certain risks such as infection, bleeding, a reaction to anesthesia, and scarring. Dr. Yagoda will explain these risks and those specific to chin surgery in detail during your comprehensive consultation.

To determine whether chin augmentation might be right for you, please call our office to schedule your comprehensive consultation.

Read about Dr. Yagoda's Integrative Post Operative Care Program