Many people have a chin that is just too small for their face. When one has a lack of chin projection, the face is weakened. It can also make the nose look longer than it really is. For this reason, many patients will seek surgery to improve the appearance of the chin. This is accomplished by an osteotomy or by inserting a small synthetic implant over the natural bone. The operation can also greatly enhance the results of a face lift, since loss of chin projection may occur with aging. Chin augmentation is also commonly combined with facial liposuction, where fat is removed from under the chin and from the neck.

A small incision is made either underneath the chin or inside the mouth. A sterile implant, similar to the consistency of a normal chin, is placed in front of the bone to increase the projection of the chin. The implant is secured and the incision is sutured closed. Alternatively, a bony osteotomy may be peroformed and the chin and soft tissues are advanced to create facial balance and a natural, improved appearance.

Some swelling and bruising can be expected and usually subsides within the first two weeks. A tape of elastic dressing may be recommended for a period of time. Mild discomfort is usually easily controlled with medications prescribed by your surgeon.

After healing, the skin drapes smoothly over the implants. The implants themselves conform to the bone and are usually undetectable. The added projection of the chin results in significant improvement which is especially apparent in profile.