Chin surgery is a cosmetic procedure performed to balance the face.  In some cases, it may be performed with other facial procedures, or may be part of a facial reconstruction.

Chin surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone. Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery to a patient having nose surgery in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose. Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.

Preparing for Chin Surgery

Once your surgery is scheduled you will be required to come in for a pre-operative appointment. You will be given specific instructions on how to prepare for surgery, including guidelines on eating and drinking, smoking, and taking or avoiding certain vitamins and medications. Carefully following these instructions will help your surgery go more smoothly. If you smoke, it's especially important to stop at least two weeks before and four weeks after surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and can interfere with the healing of your incision areas.

Surgical Placement of a Chin Implant

Insertion of a chin implant may take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. During the procedure, Dr. Anigian selects the proper size and shape implant to enhance your appearance and inserts it into a pocket over the front of the jawbone. The small incision to create the pocket and insert the implant is placed inside the mouth (along the lower lip) or in the skin just under the chin area.

Usually, the chin is taped after surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort. Sutures in the skin will be removed in five to seven days. If an intra-oral incision is used, the sutures will dissolve.

Recovering from Chin Surgery

You will experience some discomfort and swelling in the affected area for several days. It's normal to experience some temporary difficulty with smiling and talking. Black and blue marks may be visible around the chin and neck. Dr. Anigian will instruct you about dental hygiene, eating and any restrictions to your activities after surgery.