1. Build or Repair the Jawline
Chin augmentation is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is used to increase the strength of an individual's jawline. Some people find they have "weak chins," which can cause low self-esteem or even jaw complications in extreme cases. Chin augmentation is designed to help those people with weak jawlines feel more confident with their faces and balance out their profiles so that they appear more traditionally attractive to themselves and others. People who have been injured in accidents sometimes require chin augmentation as part of the reconstruction process. People with bone loss in the face are also good candidates for a chin implant.
2. A Variety of Inserts for Your Specific Need
To perform a chin augmentation, the cosmetic surgeon makes an incision below the lip (either on the outside or inside of the face) and inserts a silicon chin implant, graft substance, injectable insert or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene especially designed to fit the particular client. The implants range in size and cost. The larger the implant, the more expensive the surgery, and the more high-tech materials tend to be a bit more costly than standard silicon.
Your surgeon will choose your implant based on a series of measurements to determine your face symmetry. Some surgeons use bone grafts to help reconstruct the bone with the person's own body materials, which is more desirable to many patients.
3. Surgery and Recovery
Chin augmentation is a relatively short procedure that lasts from 1 to 1 1/2 hours, depending on the augmentation procedure and implant material used. Injectable implants take a bit longer, and grafting can take 3 to 4 hours. Recovery time for a chin augmentation is about 7 to 10 days. Sutures, if they are used, are removed within 3 days, and typically you can return to your daily life after about 7 days.
You will likely experience bruising and swelling that mimics that of wisdom teeth removal. The bruising quickly fades; however, you must be careful to use the recommended cleaning rituals designed to combat infection. It may take up to 6 months for the full benefits of the augmentation to be evident.
4. Watch for Complications
As with any surgery, there are some possible complications during and after the operation. Since chin augmentation is typically done under anesthesia, the risk of allergy to the anesthesia is possible. Following the procedure, aside from normal swelling, there should be few complications. However, if you experience a high temperature (more than 100 degrees F), sudden swelling or discoloration, hemorrhaging, infection of the incision wound, allergic reaction to medications or shifting of the implant, contact your doctor immediately. While these are not typical of chin augmentation, they are possible and deserve proper medical attention.
5. Consider the Costs
Chin augmentation is one of the least expensive forms of plastic surgery. Compared with other procedures--such as breast augmentation, rhinoplasty or face lifts--chin augmentation is in the low end of the cosmetic surgery spectrum. The cost ranges from $1,200 to $3,000, depending on the doctor and the type of surgery performed. Silicon implants are typically less expensive than expanded polytetrafluoroethylene, and injectable products are cheaper because there is no need for a large surgical team.
Many cosmetic surgeons offer payment plans and financing, making it more affordable to a larger population of people. Visit a board-certified cosmetic surgeon for a full consultation to get accurate pricing details.
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