Chin Augmentation

What is a Chin Augmentation?

The chin is one of the major balancing features of the face. If the chin is not properly balanced it could make the face have a distorted look. When this imbalance occurs one is forced to consider Chin Augmentation otherwise called Mentoplasty. The idea of Mentoplasty is to create a sense of regularity to an otherwise crooked face. A crooked face may be caused by a protruding chin, an absent chin or even a recessed chin. When going for a chin implant you can also have a nose surgery done to complete the even and harmonious look you want to achieve.

Precaution

Before embarking on the plan of having a Chin Augmentation, there are some things you should keep in mind. You must ensure that you have a clean bill of health and be emotionally stable. Since the implant requires some incisions in the mouth you are also encouraged to quit smoking if you smoke. You may also need to visit your dentist to ascertain the condition of your dental care. Spend as much time as possible on consultations with the surgeon; if possible take sample pictures of how you want the chin to look like before having a chin augmentation. This is because the Mentoplasty will greatly alter your look so you must be very sure before committing yourself.

Chin Augmentation Procedure

Depending on the amount of work to be done on you, and also if you are an inpatient or outpatient will determine how much time will be spent. The normal time for Chin Augmentation ranges from 3 to 4 hrs. Before the Mentoplasty is done, you might have to take antibiotic to reduce the risk of infections.  You would be placed under anaesthesia when the surgery is underway. To begin the procedure an incision though small in size, will be made inside the mouth or under the chin. Then the new chin i.e. silicon is inserted into the incision. The insertion doesn’t last for more than half an hour. The augmentation should be kept in place for a minimum of 10 days.

Risk

As is common with surgeries there are risks and disadvantages that are peculiar to  Chin Augmentation. First is the issue of bleeding. There will also be some swelling that will make talking or eating uncomfortable for many days. There is also the risk of infection that might occur as a result of the incision that was made on the face. You are also restricted with meals and would have to make do with consuming more liquids as chewing food may be difficult.

Questions to ask the doctor

Before having a mentoplasty make sure you ask your doctor questions. Some questions to ask are listed below;

1.  What are the risks that are involved with a Chin Lift?

2.  What is the procedure like?

3.  Can I see before and after pictures of previous surgeries?

4.  How soon will you be able to resume your normal activities?

5.  Would my health care plan pay or reimburse the expenses?

6.  Where and how will you perform my surgery?

7.  What are the risks associated with this procedure?

8.  Where will I be transferred to after surgery?

9.  Will I be given medication after surgery? What kind? 

10. What is the removal process for dressings, bandages and/or stitches? 

11. When do I return for my follow-up visit?