Chin Implant

CHIN IMPLANT

(MENTOPLASTY)

Understanding Chin Implant

A chin implant is placed to create a pleasing, balanced profile and to improve facial harmony. The implant builds up a receding or “weak” chin that may result of long-term nasal blockage, dental problems, or heredity. The result of chin implantation can be dramatic and frequently creates an increase in self-confidence.

Who Is A Candidate For A Chin Implant?

The ideal candidate for a chin implant is someone who desires an improvement in facial definition and balance. If you are in good physical health, are emotionally stable and have realistic expectations, you may benefit from chin implantation surgery.

Chin Surgery

Implants are available in many shapes and sizes so the procedure can be customized for each client. During the surgery, Dr. Coley selects the implant that best enhances the client’s appearance and inserts it into a pocket of the front of the jawbone. A small incision is made in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside the mouth just above where the gum and lower lip meet. Fine sutures are used to close the incision. If the incision is inside the mouth no external scarring is visible. If the incision is under the chin, the scar fades, becoming almost imperceptible.

Recent improvements in surgical materials have resulted in implants that become incorporated into the chin tissue. Shortly after implantation, the material becomes attached to the surrounding tissue. Materials that compose the implants have been used for many years and are considered very safe.

Before Surgery

During the consultation, Dr. Coley analyzes the chin and jaw to determine if an implant will enhance the facial profile. He also considers other facial features and may recommend nose surgery, facelift, or facial liposuction along with the chin implantation to achieve better facial harmony.

During Surgery

Chin Impant surgery is an outpatient procedure that commonly takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

Understanding the Recovery

Immediately after the surgery, Dr. Coley may apply a pressure bandage that is removed in the office the day after surgery. After the pressure bandage is removed, there may be tape over the site. This tape stays in placed for a few days. Clients may experience discomfort and swelling around the chin for several days. Numbness and bruising may also be present. There may be some temporary difficulty with smiling and talking. During this time, Dr. Coley provides instructions regarding dental hygiene, eating and restrictions on activities that could delay healing.

Understanding the Results

Although healing begins immediately, the process is slow and gradual. The client may be unable to see the final results for weeks or even months. Most clients find that other people don’t recognize they’ve had facial surgery; they just know they look better.