Facial balance is a somewhat difficult concept to articulate, but it is very easy to notice when balance is off—or spot-on. Good facial balance greatly improves the overall facial aesthetics, and is achieved when the features are proportional and work in harmony with one another. For example, someone with a large nose and small chin may have fine features, but those features simply don’t work well together. While many plastic surgery procedures are geared toward anti-aging, many others are intended to improve overall facial aesthetics, balance, and harmony. One procedure that’s popular for helping to bring balance to the face? Chin implant surgery.

What is Chin Implant Surgery?

Chin implant surgery is just what it sounds like—the process involves inserting a small implant, typically custom-made of Mersilene mesh, solid silicone or another synthetic material to shape and contour a small or “weak” chin with poor projection. This procedure has become much more popular in the last few years, as men and women alike realize the importance of the chin’s role in facial balance and aesthetics.

How Intensive is the Surgery & Recovery?

While the chin implant procedure does involve surgery, it is a fairly straightforward, simple, and quick process. An incision is made in one of two locations: inside the mouth, or externally, underneath the chin. Either location is discreet and reduces any visible scarring. The chin incision is preferred when more than one procedure is being performed, and to reduce infection risk. Once the incision has been made, the implant is carefully placed and secured in the chin before the incision is closed. The whole procedure often takes only 30-60 minutes to complete.

As with any surgery, swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal following the chin implant procedure, but recovery is fairly quick, with many patients returning to work in a week or so. Exercise and other strenuous activity should be postponed further though, until the area has had a chance to heal more completely. Swelling will go down gradually, and final results can be seen a few months following the procedure.

Common Combination Procedures

A chin implant is a popular procedure in its own right, but it is also often combined with other procedures for even better results. The most popular combination procedure involves a chin implant combined with a rhinoplasty (nose job). These two procedures complement one another and typically produce a high level of patient satisfaction. The surgeries can be performed simultaneously, which cuts down on overall recovery time, time under anesthesia, and overall costs for the procedures. Combination procedures are a good option to consider for some patients.

Is a Chin Implant Right For You?

The chin implant is a good option for many people with a weak or receding chin, but patients must meet certain candidacy requirements before the procedure can be performed. Chin implant patients should be in good health, non-smokers, and have reasonable expectations for their results from surgery. Preview imaging software during the initial consultation can help patients decide whether or not the procedure will help meet their goals.

For patients who would like an alternative to surgery, Radiesse can be a good option. This injectable filler is administered during a non-invasive procedure and can produce subtle augmentation in the chin that is enough to suit some patients’ needs. There is no downtime associated with the procedure.

Not sure what the right choice is for you? That’s where an expert plastic surgeon comes in.

Discussing Your Options

If you are interested in permanently improving your overall facial balance and harmony, then it’s time to discuss your options with a qualified, board certified facial plastic surgeon. An expert plastic surgeon will be able to give you an honest facial assessment and make recommendations for procedures based on your goals. You will get the opportunity to ask any questions you may have, voice your concerns, and get to know your surgeon before you decide to move forward.

If you need an expert opinion in Newport Beach (949-650-8882) or Beverly Hills (310-467-2180), CA, call Batniji Facial Plastic Surgery to schedule a consultation with dedicated facial plastic surgeon Dr. Rami K. Batniji. Dr. Batniji performs only facial surgery and procedures, and can help you get beautiful results you’ll love. For more information, call either location today.