Chin Augmentation (Mentoplasty, Chin Implants)

The chin is part of an overall esthetic "unit" which includes the nose, lips, and cheeks. In the overall balance of this esthetic unit, particularly in terms of the profile, alignment of the chin can be significant in providing harmony to the overall facial appearance. A strong chin in a man frequently accentuates his masculine features. In a woman, a slightly smaller and softer chin confers a more feminine appearance.

Chin augmentation may be performed as a single procedure, but is more commonly performed as an accessory procedure to rhinoplasty (nose job) or facelift surgery, to provide an additional enhancement to the final outcome. Chin augmentation is usually accomplished by placing an implant to provide a more prominent chin or an enhanced contour to the chin. The implant is inserted either through a small incision in the mouth or under the chin that usually leaves a small concealed scar. Dr. Samaha uses chin implant materials that provide an esthetically pleasing appearance, are well tolerated by patients, and have a good safety record. Different sizes are available to achieve the desired degree of prominence, depending on the patient's needs. Chin augmentation does not affect the bite or chewing.

The Day of the Surgery
Chin augmentation is an outpatient procedure. Patients are able to go home within one hour following surgery. A dressing is placed on the chin to secure the area and a soft diet is recommended for one to two days. The swelling from the surgery will gradually decrease over the ensuing days. The dressing is removed at the first post-operative visit, one week after surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the restrictions after surgery?
The main restriction is the soft diet in the first 1-2 days. Patients can otherwise resume normal activities immediately following surgery. Cold compresses on the area are soothing, provided they are applied gently.

How long is the recovery?
Recovery time is about 7 days. Patients are usually comfortable returning to work after the removal of the dressing at 7 days, some prior.

What about bruising?
Some swelling and bruising on the chin and surrounding area is expected. This tends to be largely resolved at the time of the first post-operative appointment, one week following surgery.

Photos?
The Collège des Médecins du Québec prohibits physicians practicing in Quebec from posting testimonials from other patients or photos on a website or other media. For patients who wish to see examples of outcomes of particular surgical procedures, "before and after" pictures can be shown from Dr. Samaha's portfolio at the time of their visit. These are photos of patients who have undergone surgery and have agreed to have their pictures shown to help other patients who are contemplating a similar procedure.

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