If your facial features seem to be out of balance, the issue may be the size and shape of your chin. Having a chin that is too large detracts from your other features. A chin that is too small makes other features seem more prominent. You can correct facial balance with mentoplasty is also known as chin augmentation in Newport Beach. Dr. Juris Bunkis is a double board-certified plastic surgeon who offers chin augmentation and chin implants at Orange County Plastic Surgery.
Face Procedures
Chin Augmentation In Newport Beach, Orange County, CA
What Is A Chin Implant?
A weak chin disturbs the balance of your face and makes it look disproportionate. It can make your nose look disproportionately large, making you think about rhinoplasty. In fact, chin correction is one of the ways to achieve harmony and symmetry in the face.
Chin implants are made of a soft solid silicone that can be inserted over the chin point to add shape and volume. Your jaw surgery may also include mandibular implants that add definition to the jawline at the angle of the mandible.
Best Candidates For Chin Augmentation
Since every patient is unique, your surgeon will sit down with you in a private consultation to examine your chin and listen to all your aesthetic concerns and goals. Drs. Bunkis and Ekstrom can also discuss the other cosmetic treatments that can be combined or performed at a later time to further improve your look, such as nose surgery or a facelift.
Candidates for chin augmentation surgery do have some cosmetic concerns in common, such as:
- A weak or short chin or jaw
- A nose which disturbs the balance of the face
- A desire for a more distinct jawline
What Happens During A Chin Augmentation Procedure?
A patient will be under deep sedation or a light general anesthetic during chin surgery, which is performed as an outpatient procedure at the surgical suite of Orange County Plastic Surgery. Dr. Bunkis makes a small incision either inside the lower lip or under the chin. A chin implant, which is made of biocompatible, medical-grade materials, is positioned carefully into the pocket. Your surgeon then works with the implant to find the best position.
After the implant is placed, the incision is closed with sutures. If the incision was made inside the lower lip, the patient will have no visible scarring but the chance of having a surgical infection is higher. For incisions under the chin, the scar will be carefully placed and is usually not perceptible when healed. The entire surgery takes around one hour to complete.
Non-surgical Alternatives For Chin Augmentation & Chin Enhancement
Non-surgical chin augmentation is offered at Orange County Plastic Surgery. This is an ideal option for men and women who desire very minor chin enhancement in Newport Beach and who prefer periodic injections to a more permanent surgical correction. The best cases for nonsurgical chin augmentation are persons who have:
- Indentations in the chin
- Minor asymmetry
- Mildly weak chin profiles
What Is Chin Augmentation Filler?
Dermal fillers and microfat grafts add volume to the space under your skin. Hyaluronic acid is one of the most common ingredients in fillers. It works by attracting water molecules to the skin and binding with it. Similar to how a sponge expands when you add water, the additional hydration “plumps” your contour. Other fillers that work very well for chin enhancement contain ingredients that stimulate collagen production.
A chin augmentation filler can add just a bit of volume to your chin to refine facial balance and proportions. Chin injections offer a temporary solution that may last up to a year, depending on which dermal filler is used. Your surgeon may also recommend chin augmentation filler as a way to see how comfortable you are with the results of chin enhancement. If you are comfortable with the changes to your chin, you can make an informed decision to proceed with chin implants.
What Is The Best Filler For Chin Augmentation?
Although there are many fillers that can be used effectively for chin augmentation, Sculptra® is among the favorites. It works by stimulating collagen production. Other fillers that contain hyaluronic acid produce almost immediate results.
With Sculptra®, the changes are very gradual because it takes time for the collagen fibers to form. Additionally, the results of chin augmentation with Sculptra® may last up to a year. With other fillers, results tend to last up to six monthx. Sculptra® can also be used as a jaw filler to create a stronger front and side profile.
How Is Kybella® Used For Chin Enhancement?
Kybella® is an injectable product that destroys fat cells. When most people think of chin augmentation, they envision treatments that make the chin larger and more prominent. Kybella® is designed to remove neck fat, below the chin, to enhance the profile. Kybella® is possible alternative to neck liposuction, but if the patient is having a chin implant, it just makes sense to suction the neck at the same time.
Chin Augmentation FAQ
Chin Augmentation Recovery
To maintain sterility, a bandage will be applied to the chin and must remain in place for 3 to 4 days. Patients can expect some pain, tenderness, and swelling after chin implant and chin augmentation surgery, as these are a normal part of chin augmentation recovery. Experiencing tightness, stretched sensation after surgery is normal.
In about a week these symptoms will disappear. The swelling will also subside in a few weeks and you will be able to enjoy the results of the surgery. If the incision was made under your chin, the chin implant scar will initially heal with a pinkish color. The color changes over the next 12 months until it is just slightly darker than your natural skin tone.
How Long Is Chin Implant Recovery?
Chin implant recovery is day-by-day, so be sure to get plenty of rest and be patient with your body’s natural healing. On average, chin implant recovery takes about six weeks. Chin reconstruction and chin reduction recovery will take longer because the bone was modified during the procedure.
As part of your consultation, as well as post-operative instructions, Dr. Bunkis discusses what to expect during your chin augmentation recovery time. We also provide written aftercare information that will minimize your chin implant recovery time.
How Long Does Chin Augmentation Last?
The result after a chin augmentation with an implant lasts a lifetime. The implant has the consistency of natural tissue, which makes it look and feel like real bone.
Post Operational Instructions
After undergoing plastic surgery, following the postoperative instructions provided by your surgeon is crucial for optimal healing and recovery. These instructions may include caring for the surgical site, managing pain, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It is important to keep the surgical area clean, take prescribed medications as directed, rest and avoid strenuous activities, and adhere to a balanced diet while staying hydrated.
Attending follow-up appointments will allow your surgeon to monitor your progress and provide further guidance, ensuring a successful outcome from your plastic surgery procedure.
