Chin Augmentation

Chin Augmentation (Genioplasty or Mentoplasty) is a surgical procedure to reshape or enhance the size of the chin. It may be done either by inserting an implant or by moving or reshaping bones.

Incisions are typically made in one of two locations: either beneath the chin within a natural or crease or inside of the mouth where the gum and lower lip meet. To build up a receding chin with an implant, the surgeon will made the incision then gently stretch the tissue to create a space into which the implant is then inserted. To reduce a prominent chin, the surgeon will made the incision and then sculpt the bone to the desired shape and size.

Duration of the procedure:

Chin augmentation surgery may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.

Post operative surgery:

You will feel some discomfort and soreness, which you can easily control with pain medication.

You may feel some numbness in your chin for up to 3 months and a stretching sensation around your chin for 1 week. Most of the swelling will be gone by 6 weeks, depending on the type of procedure you had.

You might have to stick to a liquid or soft diet for at least a day or two.

You'll probably have the outside bandage removed within a week of surgery. You may be asked to wear a brace while you are sleeping for 4 - 6 weeks.

You can resume light activity the day of surgery. You should be able to return to work and your usual activities within 7 - 10 days.

Recovery period

The recovery takes one to two weeks. Most people are back to work within a week or two.

Possible risk and complications:

The most common complications of chin augmentation are: bruising, movement of the implant, swelling. Other possible complications include: damage to the teeth, loss of sensation. Rare side effects include: blood clots, infection that can sometimes require removing the implant, pain that does not go away, numbness or other changes in skin sensation. You should discuss all the risks with your cosmetic surgeon.

Anesthesia use:

Local Anesthetic (while you are awake)

Hospital admission:

It depends on your preferences as well as your surgeon’s. Chin augmentation can be performed on an out patient basis, in the hospital, or in an ambulatory surgical suite.

Preparation before Surgery

• Assessment of the medical history (any allergies, serious medical condition and all medications taken both prescribed and non-prescribed), physical examination, and laboratory tests will be performed during consultation.
• Blood and urine samples will be collected for routine preoperative laboratory tests.
• Smoking must be avoided for about 3-4 weeks prior to surgery, as nicotine interferes with circulation and will greatly affect healing process.
• You will likely to be asked to stop drinking alcohol, a week before the surgery and throughout your recovery period.
• Avoid taking any medications such as hormones, anticoagulants, anabolic steroids and supplements at least 4-6 weeks to prevent complicating medical factors prior to surgery. Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding.