Chin Plasty New York City

Chin Plasty/Augmentation and Reduction

The overall facial composition can be critically determined by the size, shape and appearance of the chin and jaw. A chin that is too small will give greater focus to the nose and for men, detracts from a strong masculine look associated with a square, strong jaw and chin line. On the other hand, a chin that is too prominent, jutting, or squared may be seen as unfeminine throwing the facial composition out of balance while a sagging chin that comes with age may have a “witchy” look. As the lower third of the face is extremely important in facial composition, it is easy to see such attributions of masuclinnity/strength and femininity/delicacy associated with the structure of the jaw and chin. Furthermore, as one ages, normal bone resorption of the jaw bone with relaxation of the overlying skin forming jowls accentuates anatomical changes which are subtle indicaters of age.

To achieve the proper balance and facial harmony, chin modification is done to either enlarge the chin with or without strengthening the jaw line (augmentation) or reduce the size and shape of the chin [reduction]. Both procedures can be done alone but are often done in conjunction with other facial aesthetic surgery, mostly nasal reshaping [rhinoplasty], facelift/necklift surgery, or liposuction of excessive fat beneath the chin. Procedures are done under local anesthesia with “twilight” sedation. It is done on an ambulatory basis at Dr. Simone’s facility, the Park Plastic Surgery Center.

Augmentation:

There are generally two methods of chin augmentation.. The most common is with the use of a chin implant made out of inert, synthetic material such as silicone. Dr. Simone takes measurements and uses testing sizers to determine the best implant shape projection and balance appropriate for each patient . Some implants have extensions which serve to soften the jowl or give a fuller look to the side of the jaw. The incision used is usually under the chin or inside the mouth. Both heal very well. Liposuction under the chin and neck can enhance the projection and shape of the jawline and chin. Antibiotics are given before, during and after the surgery to prevent infection.

Alternatively, another procedure to increase projection is to horizontally saw the chin bone and advance the lower segment forward. This is much more involved, requires a larger incision and wire fixation of the bones. With advances in safety of synthetic implants and availability of a variety of sizes and shapes, there are fewer indications for this more involved procedure.

Reduction:

On the other hand, bone reshaping is the only alternative to chin reduction. This is done as well through incisions place under the chin or in the mouth. The achieve the desired configuration, the bone is carved, chiseled and/or filed. The overlying skin usually contracts and adheres easily to the new, smaller shape.

As with all procedures, there are inherent risks and complications which will be reviewed before your surgery. Though uncommon, they can occur. Post operative compressive dressings will reduce the incidence of bleeding, collections of fluid or displacement of the implants. Antibiotics will reduce the potential for infection.