What Is a Chin Implant? 2024 Expert Guide with Examples & Photos
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A small or recessed chin can throw off facial proportions, making features like the nose look bigger, the neck shorter, and the jawline less sculpted. If you’ve wished for a more defined lower face, a chin implant may be the solution you’re looking for.
The procedure involves placing a standard or custom-fitted implant to enhance chin projection and contour. The goal is a more harmonious and attractive facial profile.
What is a chin implant?
A chin implant, a type of genioplasty, is a surgery that improves the size and shape of the chin. Unlike facial surgeries that reduce excess tissue or tighten skin, a chin implant involves placing a small implant over the existing chin bone to create a more prominent, balanced look.
The surgeon picks an implant based on your unique facial structure and desired outcome. Then, they insert the implant through a small incision inside the mouth or under the chin. Once in place, the implant integrates with the surrounding tissue to create a natural-looking enhancement that complements your facial features.
Common candidates for a chin implant
The best chin augmentation candidates are:
Healthy with no major medical issues
Non-smokers (or willing to stop smoking)
Have realistic expectations about results
Interested in improving facial balance and harmony
Have a weak, undefined, or receding chin
Looking to enhance their profile or jawline
Committed to staying healthy after surgery to keep optimal results
Benefits of a chin implant
Besides improving facial harmony, a chin implant can:
Boost your self-esteem and confidence in social situations
Make you more attractive and youthful in photos and videos
Enhance your professional image and presence at work
Give you a more masculine or feminine look, depending on your goals
Disadvantages of a chin implant
The main disadvantages of a chin implant are:
Invasive alternative to fillers
Cost (insurance doesn’t cover the procedure)
Surgical risks like infection, bleeding, and reactions to anesthesia
Possibility of visible scarring with external incisions
Risk of complications
Chin implant risks are rare when you go to a skilled cosmetic surgeon.
But it’s important to know them before going under the knife:
Scarring if the surgeon uses an external incision method
Pain and discomfort during recovery
Implant shifting, which could require revision surgery
Potential for infection at the incision site or around the implant
Changes in sensation or nerve damage in the treated area
Possibility of unsatisfactory results or asymmetry
Reduce your risk for many of the above by choosing a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in chin implant procedures.
Types of implants
Chin implants come in various materials and shapes, each catering to specific patient needs and desired outcomes:
Silicone implants
Silicone implants are soft and flexible, mimicking the feel of natural tissue. They’re available in many shapes and sizes, allowing for a highly customizable approach to chin enhancement.
GORE-TEX® implants
GORE-TEX® implants are made of a synthetic material known for its durability and stability. These feel firmer than silicone and are less likely to move around once in place.
Medpor® implants
Medpor® implants are made from a porous, high-density polyethylene material that allows for tissue ingrowth. The patient’s tissue integrates with the implant, creating a more secure and stable result.
Extended anatomical implants
Extended anatomical implants are longer and more tapered than other types. They’re ideal for people who want to enhance their chin and jawline together.
Button or central implants
Button or central implants are small and round. They work well for people who want a subtle chin enhancement or a softer, more natural-looking look.
Square jaw implants
Square jaw implants are wider, making them popular among male patients seeking a stronger, more masculine profile.
Custom-fit implants
Custom-fit implants are made just for you based on detailed measurements of your face. A surgeon may suggest this option to achieve the most precise and tailored results.
Cost of a chin implant
A chin implant costs an average of $3,379, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons [1]. However, this doesn’t include anesthesia costs, facility fees, or related expenses.
Besides the implant itself, you must pay for:
Surgeon’s fees
Anesthesia fees
Operating room fees
Pre- and post-surgery appointments
Prescription medications
Travel expenses (if going out of town for surgery)
Most health insurance plans don’t cover chin implant costs because it’s a cosmetic procedure.
Your financing options include:
In-house payment plans: Some surgeons let patients spread out the cost of their procedure over several months or years. Ask about in-house payment options during your initial consultation so you can plan accordingly.
Medical credit cards: These are special credit cards for healthcare expenses. They often have low interest rates (or no interest) if you pay off the balance within a certain timeframe.
Loans: You can take out a personal loan from a bank or other lender to pay for your chin implant.
Savings: Saving up enough cash for a chin implant surgery is the best option if you’re close to having enough funds. This way, you don’t have to worry about racking up debt.
Average cost range
On average, a chin implant costs anywhere from $3,000 to $5,000 in the United States. But the exact cost may be higher or lower depending on where you live. You can expect to pay more in big cities or areas with a high cost of living. The surgeon’s fees, anesthesia, and facility fees also vary from place to place.
The chin implant procedure
The chin implant procedure usually happens in an outpatient surgical facility or a hospital setting.
It involves several key steps to ensure a safe and successful outcome:
Step 1: Consultation and planning
First, you’ll consult with a qualified plastic surgeon.
They’ll:
Assess your facial structure
Review your medical history
Discuss your goals and expectations
Recommend the most appropriate implant type and size
Step 2: Anesthesia administration
On surgery day, you’ll get local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. Anesthesia ensures you stay comfortable and pain-free throughout the surgery.
Step 3: Incision
After the anesthesia takes effect, the surgeon will make a small incision either inside the mouth along the lower gum line or externally beneath the chin. The incision placement method depends on the implant type and the surgeon’s preferred technique.
Step 4: Implant placement
Through the incision, the surgeon will create a pocket within the chin tissue and insert the chosen implant. They’ll position the implant to achieve the desired enhancement and ensure it sits securely against the bone.
Step 5: Closing the incisions
Once the implant is in place, the surgeon will close the incision using sutures or surgical adhesive.
Step 6: Recovery and aftercare
The surgeon’s team will monitor you in a recovery area until the anesthesia wears off. You’ll then get detailed instructions for post-operative care. This includes guidelines for managing pain, swelling, and activity restrictions.
Recovery and aftercare timing
After chin augmentation surgery, you can expect a recovery period of several weeks as the tissue heals and the implant settles into place.
In the initial days following the surgery, you may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. You may manage them with prescribed pain medication and cold compresses.
As recovery progresses, you’ll gradually resume your regular activities. You must avoid strenuous exercise and contact sports for at least four weeks to allow the implant fully integrate with the surrounding tissue. The final results will show once the swelling has fully subsided — typically after around three months.
Immediate post-operative care
The recovery timeline is unique for every patient, but here’s what you can generally expect:
Days 1-3: You’ll have some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in your chin area. Your surgeon may recommend using ice packs and taking pain medication to manage these symptoms. You’ll rest and avoid strenuous activities.
Week 1: Swelling and bruising should start to go down. Your surgeon may recommend wearing a chin wrap to help support your chin as it heals.
Weeks 2-4: Most of the swelling and bruising should be gone, and you should start to feel more comfortable. You can gradually return to your normal activities.
Weeks 4-6: You should be fully healed and able to resume all of your normal activities. Your surgeon will let you know when it’s safe to start playing sports again.
Besides resting, follow these tips to ensure a smooth recovery:
Elevate your head while sleeping to keep swelling down
Wear the chin wrap as directed by your surgeon
Take your pain medication as prescribed
Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol
For long-term care and maintenance, make sure to:
Protect your chin from injury by wearing a helmet or protective gear when playing sports
Maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine to keep your body and skin healthy
Visit your surgeon regularly to monitor your implant and address concerns
Common side effects of a chin implant
As with any surgery, chin implants carry possible side effects.
While they’re typically temporary and resolve on their own, it’s good to be aware of them:
Swelling and bruising in the treated area
Pain and discomfort (which can be managed with prescription medication)
Temporary numbness or changes in skin sensation
Scarring (but scars often fade with time and can be hidden under clothing)
Fatigue and tiredness during the initial recovery period
How long do the results of a chin implant last?
Chin implant results are long-lasting — often permanent. Still, aging and weight changes can affect your lower face’s appearance. As the skin loses elasticity and the facial tissues begin to sag, your chin contours may soften or change slightly. Prolong your results by maintaining a stable weight and practicing good skincare habits.
In some cases, patients may undergo additional procedures to address age-related changes. For example, a rhinoplasty, cheek augmentation, or facelift can further maintain a more youthful, defined appearance.
Before and after result photos
Seeing real-life transformations is a fantastic way to visualize how your appearance can change and help you set realistic expectations.
Below are before and after photos of our chin implant patients:
As you can see, patients enjoy stronger, more defined chins and more balanced facial structures.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can a chin implant help with a weak chin?
Yes, a chin implant is an excellent solution for people with a weak chin. By adding volume and projection to the chin, an implant creates a more balanced and harmonious facial profile.
Will I have a visible scar after a chin implant?
Scar visibility after a chin implant depends on the incision technique used. In most cases, surgeons make incisions either inside the mouth along the lower gum line or externally beneath the chin in a discreet location. Internal incisions won’t show visible scarring, and patients usually can conceal external incisions easily.
How soon can I return to work after the procedure?
Most patients can return to work and other normal activities within a week after a chin implant procedure. But this timeline varies depending on your healing process and the nature of your job. If you work a strenuous job, you may need more time off.
Choosing a plastic surgeon for your chin implant
Picking a competent doctor goes a long way to ensure a safe and successful surgical procedure.
During your vetting process, consider:
Board certification: Choose a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) or equivalent. This demonstrates their extensive training and expertise in the field.
Experience with chin implants: Look for a plastic surgeon who has performed many successful chin implant procedures.
Before and after photos: Review the cosmetic surgeon’s before and after gallery to assess the quality and consistency of their results. The photos should be shot in similar lighting conditions and not look edited.
Patient reviews and testimonials: See what past patients say about their experiences with the surgeon and practice.
Communication: Schedule a consultation with the surgeon to discuss your goals, ask questions, and get a feel for their communication style and bedside manner.
Questions worth asking during your consultation include:
How many chin implant procedures have you done?
What implant type do you recommend for my needs and goals?
Can you show me unedited before and after photos of your patients with similar chin structures to mine?
What kind of support does your practice provide during recovery?
Are there alternative treatments that might be suitable for me?
Burbank Plastic Surgery | Chin implant in LA
Board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Orloff at Burbank Plastic Surgery is an outstanding choice if you’re considering a chin implant in Greater Los Angeles. He and his team combine their extensive training with the latest techniques to deliver natural-looking results. To learn how chin augmentation can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, call 818-848-0590 to schedule a consultation.
Sources:
1. American Board of Plastic Surgeons, “How much does chin surgery cost?” Accessed on June 16, 2024.