Underrated Plastic Surgery: Chin Implants

What is a chin augmentation? 

Patients experience higher satisfaction with their plastic surgery results when the outcome enhances their natural beauty, looking as natural as possible. Chin augmentations, also known as chin implant surgery, is a procedure that improves facial symmetry, giving patients an elevated appearance while still looking like themselves. By establishing a balance between the nose and chin, surgeons can create a defined side profile, correct chin recession, and sharpen the neck and jawline. Dr. Barrett specializes in detailed chin enhancements in Beverly Hills, using soft silicone implants or dermal filler, depending on the patient's desired results.  

Chin implants provide the most extensive augmentation for those with “weak” or small chins, meaning the projection of the chin is disproportionately smaller than the nose, lips, and forehead, leading to an asymmetrical side profile. Ideally, the chin and nose should protrude at the same lengths to achieve facial symmetry, creating a straight vertical line between them. Because of this, the chin is a significant grounding point of the face, so this procedure can also make the nose and other facial features look more proportional. Each chin augmentation is tailored to the unique size of the patient’s facial features. Your surgeon will provide a comprehensive exam during the initial consultation and review the various size and shape options best suited for the patient’s surgery goals. 

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How are chin augmentations with implants performed? What is recovery like?

To perform a chin augmentation, the surgeon makes a small incision either beneath the chin or inside the mouth to secure the implant around the existing chin bone. Dr. Barrett and his team use a precise layered suturing technique that minimizes tension and reduces scarring underneath the chin. Before surgery, patients should plan time away from work and child/pet care and find a designated support system to bring them home the day of. The procedure takes around an hour and is performed under general or local anesthesia. Patients can expect the post-op recovery period to last around four days, with the final results occurring after three months. Soreness and swelling are typical for a few days following chin augmentation surgery.

Can I get chin augmentation without surgery?

Chin augmentations can be performed using dermal filler for patients desiring subtle results or a non-invasive option with similar effects to chin implants without surgery. For this option, the injector uses a hyaluronic-based filler like Juvederm to add volume, create a more defined chin contour, and stimulate collagen production. Nonsurgical chin augmentations are a great alternative to surgery to add width and projection to the jawline. They can also fill cleft chins or correct damage done by an injury. Ideal patients have mild to moderate chin asymmetry or lack of projection. Patients with severe chin deformities or significant bone deficiency may need surgical correction. This treatment typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the level of correction required. Patients can return to normal activities immediately following the procedure, though they may experience swelling and bruising around the injection site.

How long does a chin augmentation last?

For nonsurgical chin augmentations, results can last anywhere from 6 months to 2 years, depending on the type of filler used and the patient’s unique response. With maintenance, results can last indefinitely. Chin implants offer long-lasting results and do not require removal. The implant is not the same as a majority of implants. They do not need to be replaced after a certain amount of time. So essentially, your chin will be great forever!

What are the benefits of chin augmentation? Are there risks?

Whether a patient chooses an implant or goes the non-surgical route, chin augmentation offers a holistic enhancement of the entire face. Chin augmentations effectively sharpen all facial features through improved symmetry. The procedure is also an excellent option for a facial refresh as it can camouflage early jowl formation for a more youthful appearance. Other benefits include minimizing the full or “double” chin effect often caused by a small chin bone, lengthening the face by increasing vertical chin height, and diminishing the appearance of dimpling in the chin. 

Like all cosmetic procedures, chin augmentation can cause complications. Implants can cause infection, hematoma, and scarring, while fillers can cause allergic reactions, vascular complications, and granulomas. Researching a qualified professional with a reputation for patient satisfaction and safety will significantly reduce the likelihood of complications — the surgeons and injectors at Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery are trained in the best methods for chin augmentation, with patient testimonies providing examples of the full effect of chin enhancements. 

What are the next steps for someone interested in chin augmentation?

If you’re interested in chin augmentation in Beverly Hills, Dr. Barrett Plastic Surgery offers consultations to determine if the procedure suits you. To learn more about Barrett Plastic Surgery, subscribe to our blog and follow us on social media at TikTok, Instagram, Realself, and YouTube for updates. Are you interested in this procedure? Call us at (310) 398-2648 or fill out this virtual consultation form, and we will contact you as soon as possible. We’re excited for you to take this next step!  

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