About the Procedure

Chin augmentation, or chin implant surgery is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that takes about 30 minutes to an hour. Local anesthesia is usually used, along with intravenous sedation. You may instead choose general anesthesia, depending on your health and whether other procedures are being performed at the same time. Chin implants are typically placed through an incision made inside the lower lip or through a natural skin crease located beneath the chin. The surgeon selects the implant that would best enhance your appearance and inserts it into a pocket created over the front of the jawbone. Chin implants are made of solid silicone material (an inert substance) and come in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Recovery and Healing

You can expect some discomfort in the chin area for several days after surgery. There may be some temporary difficulty in smiling and talking. There will also be some swelling in the affected area. Following a chin implant, your physician will provide you with specific postoperative instructions regarding dental care, eating, and additional activity restrictions.

Risks

You can expect some pain and discomfort for several days after the procedure, but it should not be significant. Pain medication can be used as needed and recommended by your doctor. As with any medical procedure, there are risks, including infection around the implant or reactions to anesthesia. If infection does occur, and if it cannot be resolved with antibiotics, the implant may have to be removed and replaced at a later time. Sometimes a chin implant is not properly aligned. If this occurs, a second operation may be necessary to reposition it.

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