We have many requests for chin augmentation for those with “weak” or small or retrusive chins.  When looking at a profile of a person, the chin should protrude to about the vertical level of the lower lip, or slightly behind.  When the chin is set back from that position, it is hereditary and the result is an improper jaw/neck ratio.  This often makes the neck look fatty or droopy and the lower lip protrude too much.  The symmetry of the face and neck is off balance.  Oddly, many of these patients also have a large nose, and reducing the size of the nose while augmenting the chin makes a remarkable improvement.

Chin implants are usually made of silicone and are inserted through an incision just under the chin.  They must be sized before hand so they protrude in relation to the defect.  Many times the implant must be longer than usual, extending much further to the sides.  This is why the planning stage must be carefully performed.  The procedure can be done under local anesthesia or a light general anesthesia.  Recovery requires a light dressing and one can expect significant swelling for two to three weeks.  Because of the swelling, the final appearance will not be seen for at least 3-4 months, although at one month the appearance will be much better than prior to surgery.

An easier, faster, but temporary alternative is injection with a product like Sculptra, Juvederm, or other injectables.  Sculptra will last about two years and the others about a year, and injections require no anesthesia.  The injections also give you an idea of whether you like the new appearance.  If you want something permanent at a later date the implant can be inserted.