Chin Augmentation

Chin Augmentation also known as Mentoplasty is a surgical procedure that uses an implant (made of silicon material) to enlarge and improve the contour of any undersized, weak or receding chin.

An incision is made inside the lower lip, or under the chin. An implant of the desired size and shape is then placed inside the chin. If the incision is inside the mouth, it is closed with sutures (stitches) that later dissolve. If the incision is under the chin, removable sutures are used. At the end of the surgery, the chin is often taped to minimize swelling.

Duration of the operation:

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

Post operative care:

You will wear a facial garment or bandage for at least five days. You may experience feeling of soreness and discomfort but these can be alleviated with pain medications. You need soft diet for a couple of days. Expect swelling and bruising, but these will disappear within 1 to 2 weeks. You may experience feeling of numbness on the operated area but it will go away within one to three months. You can go back to work after a few days of rest, and avoid any strenuous activities like sports and exercise that can injure your face.

Recovery period:

Most people are ready to resume a normal schedule after a few days. You will need to take care, however, to avoid any activity which might cause an impact to your face for three or four weeks. Contact sports, games played with a ball, or activities requiring a helmet or chin-strap should be avoided.

Possible risk and complications:

Like in any other surgical operation, there may be bleeding, infection, scarring. Slow healing, changes in skin sensation and pain. However, we will take all necessary measures to avoid and minimize these risks.

Anesthesia used:

The procedure is undertaken using local anesthetics.

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.