Chin Surgery - Mentoplasty

A well defined chin helps give balance to the face and creates a major part of one's profile. Having a “weak chin” is certainly not an asset although Asian esthetics does not require a “strong” chin. 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. If you are wondering how chin surgery could improve your appearance, you need to know how the surgery is performed and what you can expect from this procedure. Successful facial plastic surgery is based on realistic expectations and exacting medical expertise. Your surgeon can answer specific questions about your specific needs.

Is Mentoplasty right for you?

As with all elective surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites. A pleasing, balanced profile can be achieved by inserting an implant or moving the bone forward to build up a receding chin, or by reducing a prominent chin. The result can be greater facial harmony and an increase in self-confidence. Submental liposuction is used to redefine the chin or neckline. When there is a contributing problem of dental malocclusions or birth defects in the structure of the jaw itself, surgery of the jaw can improve the form and function of the lower face and greatly enhance appearance.

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

Making a decision on surgery

During the consultation, your surgeon will thoroughly examine your chin and jaw to pinpoint corrective suggestions to achieve the balance desired. In some instances, the surgeon will suggest chin surgery as a supplement to rhinoplasty because a small chin can make the nose appear larger. The surgical procedure will be described in detail. If you opt for surgery, your surgeon will describe the technique indicated, the type of anesthesia to be used, the surgical facility, any additional surgery, and risks and costs.

Understanding surgery

ITo augment the chin, the surgeon begins by making an incision under the chin. By gently undermining this tissue, the surgeon creates a space where an implant can be inserted. This implant, made of synthetic material that feels much like natural tissue,
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, the surgeon uses fine sutures to close the

incision. In chin reduction surgery, incisions are made either in the mouth or under the chin. The surgeon sculpts the bone to a more pleasing size. For orthognathic surgery, the surgeon will make an incision inside the mouth.

Post-operative expectations

Immediately after surgery, the surgeon 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 be limited immediately after chin surgery, and a liquid and soft food diet are required for a few days after surgery. Most patients feel a stretched, tight sensation after the surgery, but this usually subsides in a week. After several weeks, most swelling will be gone, and you can enjoy the results of your procedure. Normal activity can be resumed after approximately ten days. Facial plastic surgery makes it possible to enhance your appearance. By changing how you look, facial plastic surgery can improve your self-image. Insurance does not generally cover surgery that is purely for cosmetic reasons. Surgery to correct or improve genetic deformity or traumatic injury may be reimbursable in whole or in part. It is the patient's responsibility to check with the insurance carrier for information on the degree of coverage