What Is Chin Augmentation?
Chin augmentation, also referred to as genioplasty or mentoplasty, is designed to recontour the chin and provide a more balanced facial appearance. While this procedure is most often performed to create a chin that is stronger, longer, or broader, reduction mentoplasty does the opposite and decreases the size of a prominent chin.
This surgery may be performed alone or in conjunction with a facelift, nose job, cosmetic ear surgery, or any cosmetic facial surgery to achieve greater facial harmony.
Dr. Butler is a well-respected, board-certified facial plastic surgeon with many years of experience performing facial rejuvenation procedures in Santa Monica, California, including chin augmentation.
What Are the Benefits of Chin Augmentation?
Enhance a Weak Chin
Chin augmentation can create:
- A chin that is proportionate to your face and features
- A more defined contour and appealing transition from your face to your neck
Reduce a Large Chin
Chin reduction offers:
- A decrease in the prominence of a large or projecting chin for men
- A more feminine appearance for women
Balance Facial Features
Genioplasty or mentoplasty can provide:
- Improved facial definition
- Improved facial harmony
- Improved facial aesthetic
How Is Chin Augmentation/Reduction Performed?
The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and usually takes one to two hours to complete. Depending on your anatomy and desired outcome, Dr. Butler will make an incision hidden inside the mouth or through an existing very fine crease line under the chin.
For chin enhancement, Dr. Butler will most commonly insert a silicone implant into a snug pocket created beneath the chin muscles. This gives the best assurance of long-term security and maintenance of shape and position. He customizes the implant for your specific needs.
When reducing the size of the chin, Dr. Butler will sculpt the bone of the chin to achieve the desired shape and size.
After the procedure, Dr. Butler will close the incision with sutures and apply a dressing.
Chin Augmentation FAQ
What happens during my chin augmentation consultation?
During your consultation, Dr. Butler will listen carefully to your concerns about your chin, ask about your goals, and then examine your face and chin to recommend the best chin recontouring options for you.
Photographs are taken and carefully analyzed. Frequently, digital simulations of the anticipated result of surgery are made. Options for chin/jaw size and shape are discussed further at a secondary visit before the definitive plan is agreed upon.
Our office will then provide an inclusive cost quote and, if you choose to proceed, all pre-operative instructions.
How do I prepare for a chin augmentation?
Included in your pre-op instructions will be the following steps to prepare you for the procedure, reduce complication risks, and help ensure the best results:
- Don’t smoke
- Avoid alcohol
- Stop taking certain medications and supplements that may increase bleeding, like aspirin and NSAIDs, a week before your procedure.
How much does chin augmentation cost in Santa Monica, CA?
The cost for chin augmentation in Santa Monica, CA, will vary according to the patient’s anatomy, techniques used, and whether the patient has combined their chin surgery with any other procedures.
The cost of chin augmentation can also vary depending on several additional factors, such as the surgeon’s fees, the type of anesthesia used, and the location of the practice. It’s essential to have a good understanding of the costs involved before undergoing the procedure.
Once Dr. Butler has created a customized surgical plan, you will receive an accurate cost estimate for your chin augmentation procedure.
Who is a good candidate for chin augmentation?
A good candidate for chin augmentation is someone with a weak or recessed chin or who wants to improve the balance of their facial features. Additionally, candidates for chin surgery:
- Should be in good physical health with no conditions that can affect healing or blood clotting
- Have realistic expectations for results
- Understand the risks and benefits of the procedure
- Do not smoke or are willing to quit
What materials are used for chin implants?
Chin implants are typically made of a dense, non-reactive type of silicone. This material is durable and safe and can be accurately molded to the ideal shape the patient needs. It does not cause any kind of immunologic response. Dr. Butler will discuss what materials may be used for your chin implants during your consultation.
Is chin augmentation painful?
Chin augmentation is usually performed under general anesthesia, so patients should not feel any pain during the procedure. Intravenous sedation is an option for some patients. Over-the-counter pain relievers are usually sufficient to relieve discomfort during recovery, but prescription pain medication is available when needed.
Will my chin augmentation results be permanent?
Your chin augmentation results should last a lifetime, although changes in anatomy and the aging process may affect them. Dr. Butler is committed to both your safety and delivering your ideal outcome.
During a chin reduction procedure, Dr. Butler will remove parts of the existing bone structure or tissues that will not grow back. Fat and skin may change due to the aging process, but the chin’s structure will remain.
Chin implants are intended to be permanent. These silicone implants are designed to last a lifetime and should not need to be replaced or changed as you age. Unless you elect to have your chin implant removed, it will remain a permanent augmentation.
Is chin augmentation safe?
Chin augmentation is considered safe when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. However, like any surgical procedure, there are risks and potential complications, such as infection or implant displacement.
Dr. Butler will discuss all of the risks of the procedure during your consultation so you can be as informed as possible.
Does a chin augmentation leave scars?
All surgical procedures carry some risk of scarring, as any time an incision is made on the body, the healing process may result in a scar. However, depending on the technique used and the nature of your specific procedure (such as chin augmentation versus chin reduction), Dr. Butler will usually place the incision either inside the mouth or underneath the chin. If the incision is made inside the mouth, there will be no visible scarring. If the incision is made under the chin, it will fade over time and, with proper care, become almost impossible to detect.
Can a chin augmentation be combined with other procedures?
It is very common for chin modification surgery to be performed at the same time as a rhinoplasty and/or a neck lift. When performed with a neck lift, the same small incision beneath the chin is used for the chin modification.
Who should I consult about chin augmentation in Santa Monica, CA?
David M. Butler is a double board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and neck, as well as otolaryngology. With over 25 years of experience specializing in cosmetic procedures of the face and neck, Dr. Butler will provide an honest and balanced expert opinion of your condition to give you the best idea of whether this procedure can help you reach your goals.
To learn more, schedule a consultation at Dr. Butler’s Santa Monica office to discuss your chin augmentation or reduction options by calling (310) 428-0033.
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2001 Santa Monica Blvd, Suite 1262W
Santa Monica, CA 90404
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(310) 428-0033