A chin that is generally recessed and out of balance with the rest of the face.
A chin which if moved forward to some degree would enhance the overall facial balance and proportion.
Computer imaging helps the patient and doctor communicate regarding individualized surgical goals.
PROCEDURE
A small incision is made inside the lower lip, well below the gum line. No external incisions are required.
For this incision a small pocket is developed along the forward edge of the chin.
A small, medium, or large sized implant is placed in this pocket and sculptured to fit each individual. Tiny titanium screws are used to hold the implant in place.
The implant is made of medical grade, soft silicone of the type used for many other facial and joint implants.
The incision is closed with absorbable sutures that dissolve over the next seven to ten days.
RECOVERY
A single layer of tape is applied to the chin to prevent swelling. This is removed in three to four days.
There may be minimal swelling, but rarely any bruising or discomfort and significant discomfort is unusual and is easily controlled by medication.
Most swelling and discomfort subside within several days, but there may be residual numbness of the lower lip that may last for days to several weeks.
INTENDED RESULT
A more natural-looking chin that helps bring the rest of the face into proper proportion.
Chin implantation surgery is often performed with nasal reduction surgery for improvement in the overall facial proportion
Cheek areas which are flat or retruded either from birth, accident, or aging.
Cheek areas affected are typically the upper part of the cheek just below the eyelid and sometimes extending out laterally in the face.
Computer imaging sometimes facilitates patient-doctor communication regarding individualized surgical goals, but is difficult in some instances due to technical limitations.
PROCEDURE
Small incisions are made on the inside of the cheek, well above the upper gum line.
A pocket is formed in the area of deficiency through which trial implants are placed.
Once the pocket is determined adequate, the implant is sculpted to the individual deformity.
Solid surgical silicone is used for most cheek implants due to the natural texture and ease of sculpting. Small, titanium screws hold the implants in place.
Incisions are closed with dissolvable sutures. There are no visible or external incisions.
RECOVERY
Although there is rarely bruising, swelling is usually mild to moderate. Elevation of the head and application of ice packs for 48 to 72 hours minimize swelling and discomfort.
Postoperative discomfort is easily controlled by oral medication.
Most patients return to work in three to four days, depending on the level of activity required for their jobs.
INTENDED RESULT
A more natural and more balanced appearance of overall facial features.
This is an area that is frequently overlooked by both men and women who can’t quite pinpoint what it is they don’t like about the mid-portion of their face.
