Chin Augmentation
Chin Augmentation (Mentoplasty)
Chin  augmentation is the surgical use of sterile synthetics or biological implants to bring the chin into better balance with your other facial features. Chin augmentation helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.

What are the Benefits of Chin Implants ?
The procedure can balance a weak, or receding, chin and make a prominent nose seem less large. A weak chin can also make your neck look overly fleshy. Usually, a chin implant provides a more harmonious balance to your face and features so you feel better about the way you look, especially in profile.

How are Chin Implant Performed ?
Chin augmentation operations can last thirty minutes to one and one-half hours, depending on the circumstances of your case. The procedures can be performed with either a local or general anesthetic, depending on patient and surgeon preferences .The surgeon begins by making an incision either in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside the mouth, where gum and lower lip meet. By gently stretching this tissue, the surgeon creates a space where an implant can be inserted. Implant are made of solid silicone, generally considered safe by most physicians because, they say, there is no scientific evidence that solid silicone is harmful. After implantation, the surgeon uses fine sutures to close the incision. When the incision is inside the mouth, no scarring is visible. The chin is taped after surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort.

How Much Pain is Associated with Chin Implant ?
Normally, extensive pain is not associated with chin implantation although pain and relaxation medication is often prescribed beforehand. Your surgeon may also write a prescription for medication to reduce swelling and bruising. After the operation, you may feel a degree of numbness in your chin that usually disappears within one to three months. Your physician may ask you to wear a supporting brace during sleep to allow your tissues and implant(s) to heal in the best position possible and prevent shifting in the first few weeks of your recuperation. Swelling usually disappears within the first five to seven days. Many chin implant patients return to work with the help of camouflaging cosmetics about five days after the procedure. Patients who have been under a general anesthesia may feel a little queasy at the stomach after waking. Some swelling and bruising can be expected and usually subsides within the first two weeks. Your surgeon may ask you to wear a support brace while you sleep to allow your tissues and implant to heal in the desired position.

What To Expect After The Surgery ?
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 probably be limited immediately after chin surgery, and a liquid and soft food diet may be 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 approximately six weeks, most swelling will be gone, and you can enjoy the results of your procedure. Rigorous activity may be prohibited for the first few weeks after surgery. Normal activity can be resumed after approximately ten days.