Chin reshaping surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a surgery that involves manipulating the bone and cartilage around the jaw, and reshaping the tissues so that the jaw is in proportion with the rest of the face. However, this type of surgery is not the only option for changing the way the chin looks and enhancing the facial silhouette. Chin implants can be embedded into the chin to lengthen or widen the chin if needed, and dermal fillers can be administered in the facial compartments to create a more chiseled look. Here’s a close look at all of your options for chin reshaping:
Chin Reshaping Surgery
Mentoplasty surgery is a fairly complex procedure that involves reshaping of the bone and chin and then adding or removing fat to create a streamlined appearance. This type of surgery is typically performed after an accident or trauma to the face, but may be performed for aesthetic purposes as well. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and downtime varies depending on the extent of surgery required.
Chin Reshaping with Chin Implants
Chin implants, also known as
chin augmentation, involve mounting an implant directly on top of the bone and suturing it in place. This type of chin reshaping procedure may rquire making a bone graft and securing the implant in place with bone plates and screws. Implants are typically inserted by making a small incision under the chin or inside the mouth, and then suturing the implant into a small pocket of the facial compartment. This type of surgery can take between two to three hours, and is usually performed on an outpatient basis.
Chin Reshaping with Injectable Fillers
If you don’t want to undergo surgery to achieve that chiseled jawline or enhance the chin area, dermal fillers present another option. Dermal fillers can be strategically injected into the facial compartments around the jawline to augment the chin and create a more balanced face. Fillers that last for several months such as Restylane and Juvederm can help to improve your appearance instantly, and these fillers do not involve any downtime.
There are now several options available for individuals who want to change the look of their lower face and balance out their facial features. Each type of procedure has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Mentoplasty is a permanent procedure that involves extensive bone and tissue manipulation. Chin reshaping with implants is also permanent, but any fat grafts used in the procedure may be reabsorbed by the body. Injectable fillers are temporary, and touchups will be required in order to maintain results. Injectable fillers may also not produce natural-looking results as a surgery or implants would, but the surgeon can mold and shape the liquid fillers as it is being injected under the skin for better results.
Chin reshaping may be an attractive option for you if you have been in an accident or simply want to balance out your facial features. Learn more about
chin augmentation and facial plastic surgery in our information guide, or consult with a
plastic surgeon in your area to find out if you are a good candidate for chin reshaping procedures.
Published: 03/27/2009, Last Updated: 03/27/2009
By LocateADoc.com Medical Staff Writers
Our writers strive to present an objective, upfront and open view of the medical procedures you're interested in. We present you with both the good and bad, and work to represent both doctors' and patients' points of view. Our articles contain facts and statistics obtained from medical associations, medical and surgical journals, and through doctor and patient interviews.