Chin Implants (Mentoplasty)
Chin Surgery |
The
Procedure | Recovery
Understanding
Chin
Surgery
Chin implantation creates a pleasing balanced profile by inserting a
medical-grade material to build up a recessed chin. An implant is
frequently used to improve a "weak" chin that may be the
result of long term nasal blockage, enlarged adenoids, dental problems
or heredity. This surgery improves facial harmony and often results in
increased self-confidence. It is one of the more gratifying procedures
in facial profile correction. The improvement can be dramatic.
Recent improvements in surgical
materials have resulted in implants that become incorporated into the
chin tissue. Implants are available in many shapes and sizes so the
procedure can be customized for each patient. Shortly after implantation,
the materials become attached to the surrounding tissue. Materials that
compose the implants have been used for many years and are considered
very safe.
During consultation,
Dr. English
analyzes the chin and jaw to determine if an implant will improve the
facial profile. In considering the profile, the chin projection should
usually be even with or slightly in front of a line drawn downward from
the lower lip. A well-defined chin gives balance to the face and creates
a major portion of the profile.
Many surgeons will recommend a chin
implant along with nose surgery,
facelift, or facial liposuction. This
recommendation is made because the surgeon does not consider the chin as
an isolated structure, but as an important feature of the face. The
combination of procedures may result in better facial harmony.
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The Procedure
At English Plastic Surgery Center & Surgi-Spa, a chin implant is
performed by using local anesthesia with I.V. sedation. A small incision
is made either in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside
the mouth just above where gum and lower lip meet. The implant is
inserted into a small space that is created by the surgeon then fine
sutures are used to close the incision. If the incision is inside the
mouth, no external scarring is visible. If the incision is under the
chin, the scar fades over time, becoming nearly imperceptible.
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Recovery
Immediately after the procedure, the surgeon may apply a pressure
bandage that is removed in the office the day after the surgery. After
the pressure bandage is removed, there may be tape over the incision.
This tape stays in place for five to seven days and is removed at the
next office visit.
Recovery is rapid although there is
mild to moderate discomfort that is controlled with prescribed
medications. Chewing is limited immediately after chin surgery, and a
liquid or soft food diet is required for several days. Some activities,
such as lifting and bending are limited for several days following the
procedure. Facial expressions are also restricted to avoid slippage of
the implant for 2 - 4 weeks.
Numb and firm areas are common
following chin surgery, but are rarely long lasting. After approximately
six to twelve weeks, most numbness as well as swelling and bruising are
gone.
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Facelift | Eyelid Lift |
Nose Surgery | Eyebrow Lift
|
Cheek Implant
Chin Implant | BOTOX®
Cosmetic Injection |
Restylane
| Collagen
Permanent Make-Up | Eyelash Extensions
| Lumenis Quantum Laser
Candela GentleLASE Laser | Skin
Resurfacing
| Skin Care Program
