Are you looking to refine your facial balance and improve your profile? Chin surgery, like mentoplasty or genioplasty, might be the perfect cosmetic plastic surgery procedure for you. The chin is an important feature for defining the symmetry and balance of your face. A well-proportioned chin can accentuate your natural beauty.
At Elite Plastic Surgery, our board-certified plastic surgeons specialize in creating balanced results that complement your features. Whether you’re seeking to reduce the size of your chin or improve its shape or symmetry, our skilled team is here to help you reach your aesthetic goals. Discover the power of chin surgery and how it can level up your look.
What Is Chin Surgery?
Chin surgery refers to procedures that change the shape, size, or position of the chin. The chin plays an important role in your facial balance, which is why adjusting its proportions can improve the look of your jawline and profile.
Candidates for Chin Augmentation Surgery
Chin surgery refers to procedures that change the shape, size, or position of the chin. The chin plays an important role in your facial balance, which is why adjusting its proportions can improve the look of your jawline and profile.
There are two main types of chin surgery:
Chin Augmentation (Mentoplasty)
Chin augmentation is for individuals with a small or recessed chin. It increases chin projection to create a more balanced and defined lower face.
Genioplasty
Genioplasty is for those who want to reshape their chin by adjusting the natural bone. It can bring the chin forward, move it back, or refine its shape to improve facial symmetry.
Both procedures can help give you a more proportionate appearance.
Chin Augmentation Before & After
*Individual results may vary
View more before & after photos»
Candidates for Genioplasty and Chin Augmentation
You may be a good candidate for genioplasty or chin augmentation if you have:
- A recessed or underdeveloped chin that lacks projection
- A prominent or overly large chin that disrupts facial balance
- Facial asymmetry that affects the chin’s position
- A desire to refine the jawline for a more defined profile
- Concerns about a double chin due to lack of chin projection
During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your facial proportions and recommend the best approach for your goals.
The Chin Augmentation Procedure
We perform chin augmentation as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. Depending on your needs, your surgeon will use either local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia to keep you comfortable.
The incision is placed inside your mouth or under your chin to keep scarring minimal. We then place your carefully selected implant over your chin bone to enhance its shape and projection. The procedure typically takes about an hour.
The Genioplasty Procedure
Your surgeon performs genioplasty under general anesthesia. They’ll make the incision inside your mouth or under your chin to access the bone. From there, the bone is carefully adjusted – moving it forward, backward, or reshaping it.
Once the chin is in its new position, your surgeon uses small plates and screws to secure it in place before closing the incision. Since genioplasty reshapes your natural bone rather than using an implant, the results are long-lasting and customized to your facial structure.
Recovery From Genioplasty and Chin Augmentation
Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. Most patients can resume normal activities within one to two weeks. Swelling and bruising are common and may take several weeks to fully subside.
If your incision is inside your mouth, a soft diet and proper oral hygiene will be important to support healing. The swelling can take several months to fully resolve, but you should start to feel comfortable with your appearance within a few weeks.
Benefits of Chin Surgery
Chin surgery can have a significant impact on facial harmony. Benefits include:
- Improved facial balance and symmetry
- A stronger, more defined jawline
- Correction of a recessed or overly prominent chin
- Long-lasting, natural-looking results
Patients often report feeling more confident in their overall appearance after surgery.
Risks of Chin Surgery
Like any surgical procedure, chin surgery carries some risks, though complications are rare when performed by an experienced plastic surgeon. Possible risks include:
- Infection
- Poor wound healing
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Prolonged numbness in the chin or lower lip
- Implant shifting (for chin augmentation)
- Bone healing complications (for genioplasty)
Your surgeon will discuss these risks with you during your consultation and provide detailed post-operative care instructions to support a smooth recovery.
Why Choose Elite Plastic Surgery?
At Elite Plastic Surgery, our team of board-certified plastic surgeons – Dr. Shannon Armstrong, Dr. Matthew Martin, Dr. William Cullen, and Dr. Matthew P. Fahrenkopf – bring many years of combined experience and a commitment to excellence. Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, our surgeons are leaders in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery.
- Dr. Shannon Armstrong is a highly skilled plastic and hand surgeon with numerous academic publications.
- Dr. William Cullen is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons and has been recognized as one of The Best Doctors in America since 2009. He is also a member of several prestigious medical societies.
- Dr. Matthew Martin has authored significant publications and presented internationally on various plastic surgery topics.
- Dr. Matthew P. Fahrenkopf is a member of the Michigan State Medical Society and a clinical assistant professor at Michigan State University’s College of Human Medicine. He has published and reviewed numerous articles on hand and plastic surgery in professional journals.
Our practice also includes skilled aesthetic providers for non-surgical procedures, ensuring comprehensive cosmetic treatments to make you look and feel your best. Choose Elite Plastic Surgery for exceptional results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the different types of chin implants to choose from?
There are various types of chin implants to choose from, and also different materials. Most chin implants that are used are made of silicone, though polyethylene and other materials are also available. Silicone is ideal due to the firm but pliable texture of this material and its resemblance to natural tissue.
Implant types vary by shape, with the most common being:
- Anatomic chin implant
- Extended anatomic chin implant
- Mild square implant
Implant sizes, shapes, and material types are all discussed during the consultation and are selected based on the desired outcome of surgery.
How long does it take to recover from chin surgery?
Recovery time can vary by case, but most patients return to work and regular activities within one to two weeks. Swelling and bruising are common effects and may take several weeks to subside fully. Your surgeon will provide in-depth post-operative instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
Will there be visible scars after surgery?
The location of the incisions is typically chosen to minimize visible scarring. If the incision is made inside the mouth, no scars will be visible. If an external incision is needed, it is usually placed in a discreet area under the chin.
How long do the results last?
Genioplasty results are permanent since the procedure modifies the bone. Chin implants provide long-lasting results but may require replacement in rare cases.
Can chin surgery be combined with other procedures?
Yes, chin surgery is often combined with other facial procedures like rhinoplasty (nose surgery) or a facelift to achieve better facial rejuvenation and balance.
What is the difference between chin surgery and jaw surgery?
Chin surgery focuses on the front portion of the jaw, while jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) addresses more extensive structural changes to the upper or lower jaw for functional and cosmetic improvements.
Will my insurance cover chin surgery?
Chin surgery is usually considered cosmetic and not covered by insurance. However, if it is performed for functional reasons, such as correcting a birth defect or medical condition, partial coverage may be available. Patients should check with their insurance provider for details.
How do I know if I need chin augmentation or genioplasty?
If your chin is small but well-shaped, an implant can improve its projection. If your chin is asymmetrical, too large, or needs repositioning, genioplasty may be the better option. Your surgeon will evaluate your facial structure and recommend the best approach based on your goals.
Will chin surgery change the way I speak or eat?
You may experience temporary tightness, mild speech changes, or slight difficulty eating due to swelling. This is more common with genioplasty but typically improves within a few weeks as healing progresses.
What financing options are available for chin surgery?
If your procedure is not covered by insurance, we offer financing through CareCredit and Prosper HealthCare Lending. CareCredit allows you to pay in monthly installments, while Prosper HealthCare Lending provides medical loans. A $500 deposit is required when scheduling cosmetic surgery, with the remaining balance due 10 business days before the procedure. Our team can help you explore payment options to make your surgery more affordable.
Schedule a Consultation
If you are considering chin surgery and want to learn more about your options, contact our office at 616-459-1907 to schedule a consultation. Our team will guide you through the process and help determine the best approach to meet your aesthetic goals.
