Chin Augmentation / Implants

Bone structure is essential to an important part of an attractive, balanced face. Chin implants can improve this underlying structure, and better balance the facial features for a dramatically more attractive look. This operation is often performed at the time of rhinoplasty to help to balance the facial proportions. It may be combined with facelift, liposuction or other facial implants as well.

Chin implants are made in various shapes and sizes. They are made out of both solid and semi-solid materials that have been used successfully for years. Although the results can be dramatic, the implants look very natural. Many people have reported that after their chin implant surgery, people tell them that they look better, but they can't tell exactly why.

If you're considering a chin augmentation surgery, call Dr. Walker's office for an appointment.

Common Benefits Of Chin Augmentation

Chin implants may augment the jaw to correct problems with weak chins, sagging skin in the chin area, and improve the shape and balance of the face.
See: Questions To Ask Dr. Walker below.

Questions To Ask Dr. Walker

• How is a Chin Augmentation performed?
• Do I have to stay in the hospital?
• How much pain is there?
• What can I expect after surgery?
• What is the recovery period like?
• What is the long-term outcome like for most people?
• Ideal Candidate
• Risks

How is a Chin Augmentation performed?

Most often, an incision is made inside the lower lip, or under the chin. An implant of the desired size and shape is then placed inside the chin. If the incision is inside the mouth, it is closed with sutures (stitches) that later dissolve. If the incision is under the chin, removable sutures are used. At the end of the surgery, the chin is often taped to minimize swelling.

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Do I have to stay in the hospital?

Chin augmentation is performed as an out-patient, under local anesthesia, sometimes with sedation. It is often combined with other procedures that tend to dictate the need for an overnight stay.

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How much pain is there?

Local anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation is generally used to ease discomfort during the surgery. Most people report no discomfort at all. Post operative pain medicine controls the pain well.

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What can I expect after surgery?

Some swelling and perhaps bruising can occur, but this will be helped by an application of tape or other material. This tape is removed several days to a week after the surgery is performed. Pain and discomfort last for several days following the procedure, but this can be eased by an oral pain medication. Some facial movements, such as talking and smiling, may be difficult for several days following the surgery. It is important that you follow all of Dr. Walker's instructions to minimize risks, and help speed your recovery.

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What is the recovery period like?

If sutures (stitches) are used, they will be removed within a week of the surgery. Most people return to work within a week following the surgery. At first, you should avoid strenuous activities, but exercise can be resumed in about two weeks. If incisions are made inside the mouth, you may be placed on a liquid diet for several days until there is adequate healing to allow for chewing and food particles to come in contact with the stitches.

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What is the long-term outcome like for most people?

The surgery has a high rate of satisfaction. The scar is generally not noticeable, and problems related to unevenness are relatively uncommon, but are often dictated by underlying structure. Dr. Walker takes this into account and tries to adjust the implant to the underlying frame.

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Ideal Candidate:

In general, the best candidates for Chin Augmentation are people:
* In good physical health.
* Psychologically stable.
* Informed about limitations.
* Free of known allergies to the implant material.
* Realistic in their expectations for the outcome.

The above is only a partial list of the criteria that Dr. Walker will consider in determining whether or not this procedure is appropriate for you.

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Risks:

Significant complications from chin implants are infrequent. As with any surgical procedure, however, there is always a possibility of infection, or reaction to the anesthesia.

When infection does occur it is generally treated with antibiotics, but in some cases the implant must be removed and later replaced. Another risk is improper placement. In some cases, implants shift so that a second operation is necessary for repositioning.

Pre-existing conditions can also put you at risk. You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions of Dr. Walker, both before and after your chin implant surgery. A full discussion with regard to risks and complications, recovery, expectations and costs will occur at the time of your consultation. Dr. Walker may also use the computer imager to help you both decide if this surgery is right for you.

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The information on this web site is only intended as an introduction to this procedure and should not be used to determine whether you will have the procedure performed nor as a guarantee of the result. The best method of determining your options is to consult qualified surgeons who are able to answer specific questions related to your situation.

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