CHIN AUGMENTATION – MENTOPLASTY

Chin augmentation is performed to create better facial harmony. Often a small or weak chin can make the face appear as though it collapses on the lower half giving an unbalanced appearance or awkward appearance.

Some important facts about chin augmentation:

• This procedure is often performed in conjunction with a rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), facelift, liposuction of the chin and neck area, and/or chin augmentation/reduction.
• Reduction mentoplasty is an option if the chin is too large.

You may scroll down to read all topics or click on the links below to automatically jump to that selection.

Are There Any Alternatives to Surgery?

How Can I Prepare for Surgery?

How is the Procedure Done?

What Can I Expect Pre- and Postoperatively?

Tell Me About Recovery

What Kind of Risks / Complications Are There?

Still You…Only Better!

ALTERNATIVES TO SURGERY
There are no alternatives to chin augmentation surgery to correct a weak chin.

Samui Villas offers Vacation Villa Rental of Private Ko Samui Holiday Villas and Luxury Beach Villas on Koh Samui - Thailand. The period from February to June is the time when samui Villas rental in Samui is in boom. Samui Villas resort are a superb Koh Samui accommodation for people looking to lose themselves in the beauty of Koh Samui's gorgeous beaches

THE PROCEDURE
An implant is placed in front of the bone to increase the projection of the chin. Chin implants are usually inserted through a small incision either (1) inside the mouth, in the crease between the lower lip and gum, or (2) in the crease under the chin. A pocket is created and the implant is placed in position under the tissue on the jawbone. These implants can vary in size and shape. When chin implants are being placed in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift, forehead lift or eyelid surgery, the implants may be inserted through the incisions made for those procedures. Some available products for implants include Silicone, Medpor and Gore-Tex.

The implant may or may not be sutured into place. If the incision is inside the mouth, absorbable sutures are used; if the incision is under the chin, absorbable sutures may or may not be used. After surgery, a tape dressing may be applied, which will remain in place for about five to seven days.

Anesthesia
A mentoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with intravenous sedation or under general anesthesia. The type of anesthesia is dependent on the extent of the other procedure to be performed, the doctor’s choice, and the patient’s medical history or desires.

Length of Procedure
This procedure should take approximately one-half to one hour.

Level of Pain/Discomfort
Generally, with chin implants there is minimal to moderate discomfort during the postoperative period. Some people experience absolutely no discomfort at all.

PRE- AND POSTOPERATIVE INSTRUCTIONS

• Stop smoking, discontinue the use of alcohol, and stop taking vitamin E and any medications containing aspirin or ibuprofen (two weeks pre- and postoperative is usually recommended). Check with your doctor regarding any other medications (including homeopathic/herbal products) that you are currently taking.
• Have someone stay with you the first night after surgery (the first twenty-four hours, optimally).
• Dressings - if these are required, should be applied by the doctor or nurse immediately after the procedure. Do not get dressings wet.
• Follow directions regarding any ointments to be applied and/or cleansing of incisions. If incisions are inside the mouth, rinse your mouth six times a day as directed.
• For the first twenty-four hours, stay on a liquid diet, and avoid food that is too hot.
• For about a week, avoid excessive talking, laughing, and heavy chewing (stay on a soft diet). Brush your teeth gently.
• Do not rub your chin – be gentle for a minimum of a month.
• Expect some numbness in the areas treated for eight to twelve weeks.
• If your incisions are on the surface of the skin, they may itch as they start to heal. Do not scratch them.
• Postpone any dental work for at least six weeks after placement of the implant.

RECOVERY
Although problems are unlikely, you need to be aware of what can happen and what action you should take. Most risks/complications will be avoided if you make an informed decision, choose a qualified physician, and follow your physician’s instructions.

At the beginning, you can expect your upper lip and chin area to feel full, tight, and tender. The chin area may be swollen and black and blue. Expect some numbness (as if your lip had been injected with Novocain) and a tight feeling in the treated areas for an average of eight to twelve weeks. The swelling should lessen daily, with some minor swelling remaining after the first few weeks. The bruising can last, on the average, anywhere from five days to several weeks but should diminish daily. Remember—everyone is different.

RISKS / COMPLICATIONS
Although problems are unlikely, you need to be aware of what can happen and what action you should take. Most risks/complications will be avoided if you make an informed decision, choose a qualified physician, and follow your physician’s instructions.

Complications that can occur include injury to the nerves (usually temporary), rejection of the implant (very unusual), infection, and improper positioning or shifting of the implant (unlikely). You should be aware that your ability to move your mouth and lips might be diminished temporarily.

STILL YOU …ONLY BETTER
Patients report a very rewarding and gratifying result from Mentoplasty. When facial balance and harmony is restored, the overall look is very pleasing.