Chin Augmentation

Consultations offered at our five convenient locations in Calhoun, GA, Chattanooga, TN, Ooltewah, TN, Franklin, TN and Blueridge, GA

Chin augmentation, also called genioplasty, is a popular plastic surgery procedure that aims to enhance the balance and projection of the chin. The chin plays a crucial role in defining the overall harmony and proportion of the face. A weak or recessed chin can contribute to an imbalance in facial features, making other areas appear more prominent. Patients looking to get chin augmentation may feel insecure about the facial side profile and feel that it is unattractive. 

At Southern Surgical Arts, we offer a solution in the form of an effective, individualized chin implant procedure. Results are immediate and can be quite significant.

Before and After Photos

If you have been considering chin augmentation to address a weak chin or enhance your facial appearance, contact Southern Surgical Arts at one of our several locations or use our contact page to submit a request for a consultation, or call now at (800) 950-0492

Our experienced plastic surgeons are trained in state-of-the-art equipment and have specialized expertise in facial surgery and reconstruction. Your thoughts, desires, and expectations are fully valued and taken into consideration before any major decisions are made. You can take a look through our blog to further inform yourself of the various procedures we offer. 

About Recessed Chins

More often than not, a mildly recessed chin is a facial feature that is completely benign and won’t cause any health problems. A small chin is medically referred to as microgenia, and it often develops due to genetic factors. People with microgenia may also have an associated condition called micrognathia, which means that the entire lower jaw, the mandible, is also small. Surgeons can perform shin augmentation on these types of patients given that they do not have a displaced jaw or the teeth are misaligned. Finally, for people who have a type of muscular atrophy in the chin, an implant can be a safe method of restoring volume to the area. (1)

Are Chin Implants Safe?

Chin augmentation through implants is a safe procedure with a very high satisfaction rate; in one study, 97.8% of people who underwent a genioplasty were satisfied with the results. Today, surgeons take extra steps to ensure that safety measures are met. For example, research advises that surgeons stay along the bottom side of the jaw to avoid damaging the mental nerve, sterilizing the implant, and making incisions that support a snug fit. (1) Southern Surgical Arts only utilizes silicone implants which are preferred by some surgeons due to their ability to fit through very small incisions and cause limited fibrous growth around the implant- making it easier to remove years later, if requested. (2)

Benefits of Chin Augmentation

With a more balanced and proportionate chin, you may find yourself feeling more self-assured and comfortable in your own skin. Here are some other benefits to consider prior to your consultation: 

  • It can reduce the look of a double chin. 
  • It can accentuate and define your jawline.
  • Scars are discreet; they are located either inside the mouth or below the chin. 
  • Implants come in various shapes and sizes
  • The entire procedure only takes 30 minutes to 1 hour. 
  • Southern Surgical Arts only uses nonallergenic, nonreactive silicone for implants.  
  • It can be performed while you are under local anesthesia with sedation. 

Candidates for Chin Augmentation

The ideal candidate for chin implants is someone who is in good overall health, has realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure, and has a thorough understanding of the potential risks and benefits. This procedure can work wonders for non-smoking men and women over the age of 18. While the procedure can be performed on people who smoke regularly, they will be required to quit for some time. Our surgeons will not operate on anyone under the age of 18 who may not have developed adult bone structure quite yet. All prospective patients must also have normal-functioning jaws that are not misaligned- this may point to a condition called retrognathia. 

Personal Consultation 

At Southern Surgical Arts, we believe that a personal consultation is the key to achieving your desired results when considering chin implants. Our experienced plastic surgeons understand that each patient has unique cosmetic goals and concerns. Your surgeon will take the time to thoroughly assess your facial structure, discuss your medical history, and understand your specific desires. Whether you are seeking a subtle enhancement or a more dramatic change, he will carefully evaluate your facial proportions and recommend the most suitable implant size and shape. To get started today, call our most convenient location listed below or book your appointment online, or call today at (800) 950-0492

Preparation

To prepare for a chin implant, we will require blood tests to make sure you are in good health. We will also require that you stop taking anti-inflammatories and blood thinners at least 2 before your procedure. This will significantly decrease your chance of excessive bleeding during the surgery and/or bruising during recovery. If you smoke, you should quit at least 4 to 6 weeks beforehand to have an optimal recovery. Nicotine products have the potential to affect your blood circulation, healing rate, and final result. 

Chin Augmentation Procedure

After your surgeon administers anesthesia, they will make a discreet incision where the gumline and inside of the lower lip meet. In some cases, the surgeon will choose to make an incision below the chin. Next, they will form a pocket for the implant to be placed in. With dissolvable sutures, they will close the incision and bandage the chin. We require you to keep the supportive bandages on for 2-3 days before their removal.

Recovery and Results

Swelling and bruising are common during the first week, but they will gradually subside. During this time, you will have to wear a compression bandage to aid in reducing the swelling as much as possible. In addition, you should only eat soft foods and drink plenty of water. To aid in the healing process, it is recommended to keep your head elevated when resting and avoid strenuous activities for 2 weeks. 

You may experience some discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medication provided by your surgeon. Most patients feel well enough to go back to work after about 7 to 10 days. By the end of 6 weeks, all post-surgical swelling will be completely gone. Your body will fully adapt to the implant after about 12 weeks. After this much time has passed, you’ll be able to admire the permanent results of your new facial profile. 

Cost of Chin Augmentation in Chattanooga, Tennessee 

At Southern Surgical Arts, we believe in transparency when it comes to pricing. Therefore, after your consultation, you will receive an accurate estimate for the cost of your chin implant procedure. Our team will explain all associated expenses, including pre-operative tests, surgical fees, anesthesia fees, and post-operative care, so that you have a comprehensive understanding of the total investment required. For those interested, we have financing options available. 

Contact your closest SSA location or use our online inquiry form to get in touch or call today at (800) 950-0492

FAQ

Are chin implants permanent?

Chin implants are permanent, but they can be easily removed years later if desired. Silicone implants, especially, have been known to be easier to remove due to their pliability and the lack of thick, fibrous tissue that develops around them. 

Do chin implants look and feel fake?

Chin implants are designed to look and feel like the tissue of a real chin. Silicone is not only used in chin augmentation, but it is also the most popular material used in breast implants. It is a soft, yet durable material. A chin implant can fit perfectly with a patient’s anatomy. When the surgical technique calls for an incision inside the mouth, these sides of the implant- called “wings”- are placed beneath connective tissue surrounding the bone (periosteum). The center, however, lies above the periosteum, allowing for the implant to fit in snugly and create a natural contour. 

Can chin implants rupture?

Chin implants are made of solid silicone, not the gel type of silicone found in breast implants. 

Since they are more solid than breast implants, they can properly withstand the constant movement that comes with facial expressions, eating, and talking. 

Do chin implants leave scars?

If your surgeon makes incisions inside your mouth, you will not have any visible scarring. If your surgeon places the implant through an incision beneath the chin, you may have a small scar that is only a few millimeters long. With both of these types of surgical techniques, you will have insignificant scars that are easily hidden. 

References

  1. Harris WC, Raggio BS. Facial Chin Augmentation. PubMed. Published 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554506/ 
  2. Newberry C, Mobley S. Chin Augmentation Using Silastic Implants. Facial Plastic Surgery. 2019;35(02):149-157. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0039-1683867