Chin implant surgery, or aesthetic chin surgery, is both a cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery meant to provide better balance to the face. It is usually done at the time of nose surgery. Aesthetic chin surgery uses implants of various shapes and sizes made out of solid and/or semi solid materials. It can give dramatic results in overall face enhancement.

The Need for Aesthetic Chin Surgery

Though chin implants do not solve all the chin problems, they can help to reshape a patient's face dramatically. Its role in facial reconstruction cosmetic surgery is vital, though for aesthetic purposes chin implants are mainly performed to create a more symmetrical face or aid in lessening an uncorrected orthodontic under bite.

Chin implants can have wonderful effects on a patients self esteem, but will not produce perfect results as each patient is different. Chin implants are most often used to bring a face into balance, so the procedure will not correct the entire face and make a patient perfect, but it will help to even out disproportional features.

Suitable Candidates for Chin Implant Surgery

Candidates with good general health and having realistic expectations from the cosmetic surgery are the best ones for chin implant surgery. Before cosmetic chin surgery, the surgeon needs to be informed about the candidates medical conditions. Patients who smoke may be advised to quit prior to the chin implants as healing may be delayed due to the smoking habit. If the patient has a history of dental problems, that may also factor into their candidacy for chin implants.

Chin Implant Surgery - Procedure

Chin implant surgery needs similar surgical conditions that are required for cheek implants surgery. The implant can be done in a surgical office, surgical center, or in a hospital, depending on the patients case. In some cases, the patient may need to stay overnight at a hospital for observation depending on the outcome of the chin implant procedure. Anesthesia for chin implants also depends on the case. Sometimes a local anesthetic can be given along with sedationthe patient will be awake but relaxed, and will not experience pain. In some cases, the patient and surgeon may opt for general anesthesia. Anesthesia alone can carry its own risks and should be discussed with the surgeon prior to the chin implant surgery.

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 usually used. At the end of the surgery, the chin is often taped to minimize swelling. The procedure typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

Chin Surgery Complications

Like cheek implants, chin implants do carry some potential complications, though rare. So it is better for the patients receiving chin implants to consult with the surgeon thoroughly. Chin implants carry the possibility of the shifting of the implant. If this occurs, a second chin operation may be necessary to adjust the chin implants position. Infection is always a concern with a surgical procedure and may occur with chin implants. Antibiotics can control infection should it happen. Certain chin implants may cause other risks and will need to be discussed with a surgeon. Some of the chin implants are made of silicone, and some patients may have a reaction to it, although there isnt much scientific evidence that supports this claim.

Brad Jones specializes in aesthetic chin surgery. He leads a forum on cosmetic plastic surgery.