When considering cosmetic surgery, it is important that you are fully informed
on all aspects of the procedure that you are seeking.
When considering cosmetic surgery, it is important that you are fully informed on all aspects of the procedure that you are seeking. Through our brochures and information pack we aim to provide appropriate guidance until such a time that a full and confidential consultation with a consultant surgeon can be arranged.
What is Chin Augmentation?
A “normal” facial appearance recognises a balance between the nose, cheeks and chin. When one of these features is out of proportion, the face looks “abnormal” or out of balance. For instance the chin can be viewed as either “jutting” or receding (small).
In the former case, the chin can be reduced, but a small chin can be improved by placing an implant on the bone (chin augmentation) or by sliding the chin bone forwards (usually carried out by a maxillo-facial surgeon).
How is the procedure performed?
Chin augmentation using a silastic implant is usually carried out through an intraoral incision placed between the gum and the lower lip. This produces a well-hidden scar.
The alternative approach is through an external incision made in the crease line just beneath the chin. The risk of scarring in this situation must be emphasised at consultation.
Possible risks:
Swelling, bruising and temporary numbing of the skin are common but disappear within days or weeks.
Rarely, the lip may be permanently numb and there is a small risk of weakness in one of the muscles around the mouth.
The chances of displacement or extrusion of the implant must be discussed with the patient before hand as well as the risk of infection associated with the presence of foreign tissues.
Erosion or resorption of the bone on which the implant rests has been noted on x-rays several years after the operation.
Antibiotics are given routinely during the operation and for several days afterwards.
Chin augmentation is often combined with rhinoplasty to achieve a harmonious balance of the face.
Naturally, there will be many questions you will want to ask before making any decisions about undergoing surgery.
If you would like further information we will be happy to answer any queries. Please do not hesitate to fill in the form
or contact us by telephone on 0207 158 0459.
