Chin Surgery (Mentoplasty)

About the Procedure

A chin surgery is a relatively straightforward procedure that can make a major difference in the facial appearance. To build up a receding chin, or for chin reduction surgery, an implant is inserted, or the chin bone is moved forward. For a chin liposuction, submental liposuction is used, whereby excess fatty tissue is removed to redefine the chin. With dental malocclusions or birth defects in the jaw itself, chin surgery can improve the form and function of the lower face and enhance its appearance.

What to Know Before the Procedure

The surgeon will thoroughly examine the chin and jaw to pinpoint problems. In some instances, chin surgery is done to supplement rhinoplasty because a small chin may make the nose seem larger. The surgeon will prescribe the appropriate technique, the type of anesthesia to be used, the surgical facility, any followup surgeries, risks and costs.

The surgeon creates an incision in the natural crease under the chin or inside the mouth. The tissue is stretched and the surgeon creates a space where the gums and lower lip meet to insert the implant. The implant is made of synthetic material and comes in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. It feels like natural tissue normally found in the chin. The surgeon uses sutures to close the incision. No scarring is visible if the incision is inside the mouth. A scar will usually result if the incision is under the chin. The procedure usually takes from one to three hours.

Insurance generally does not cover cosmetic chin surgery. However, chin surgery that is needed to correct or improve a genetic deformity or traumatic injury can be covered.

What to Know After the Procedure

The surgeon applies a bandage that remains in place for two to three days. The patient will typically experience tenderness and post-operative discomfort. This can be controlled with medications. After chin surgery, chewing is limited immediately. A liquid and soft food diet is required for a few days after the surgery. After about ten days, normal activity can be resumed. However, rigorous activity is prohibited for the first few weeks after surgery. After six weeks, most of the swelling diminishes.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

Successful plastic surgery requires good communication between the patient and the surgeon. Trust is built in the consulting stages before surgery. Via a consultation, the surgeon can answer specific questions about the patient's specific needs.

As with all plastic surgery, good health and realistic expectations are necessary, especially with cosmetic chin surgery. The surgical consultation can help the patient decide on the type of chin surgery that addresses their concerns as well as if domestic or international travel will be an appropriate option for them. The surgeon may also offer new medical techniques for cosmetic chin surgery or offer recommendations for chin reduction surgery that can ensure the best results.