Mentoplasty / Chin Implants

Chin implants fall under Mentoplasty. Chin implants are mainly used for cosmetic purposes for people who wanted to improve the appearance of their chin, but it is not limited for that purpose alone. This can also be used for reconstructive enhancement of the jaw line. We may often see people who don’t have a well-defined chin, thus giving them an imbalanced facial contour. With the use of chin implants, their chin will be more defined and more harmonious with the rest of the face, thus getting rid of the “chinless” look.

Before a chin implant surgery is performed, your plastic surgeon will discuss many things with you and will ask you series of questions pertaining to any health problems you had in the past. Do not forget to mention any dental or gum conditions or medicine allergies you may have so that your doctor is properly informed. This will help him determine the best means of doing your chin implants procedure. Also, don’t forget to ask your doctor about any precautions you have to take before and after the surgery to avoid any complications that may lead to other health problems.

Chin implant surgical procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, unless a patient’s health problem requires him to stay in the hospital. The procedure starts when the patient is put under either general anesthesia or local anesthesia, depending on your plastic surgeon’s choice for your case. The incision involved with the procedure can be done internally or externally.

Internally placing the incision inside your mouth, along the lower lip, creates a pocket for the chin implant over the front of your jawbone. Externally placing the incision in the skin just below your chin area also creates this pocket. During the procedure, your plastic surgeon will carefully select the correct shape and size of the chin implant for your desired outcome. This is inserted into the pocket and to finish off the procedure, the pocket is closed with sutures. The surgical procedure usually takes 30 minutes to an hour, but it may take longer if you are undergoing more than one procedure.