By plastic surgeon Dr Dirk Kremer. 

When someone is unhappy with a certain feature of their face it can have a profoundly negative effect on their day-to-day life. We typically see the reflection of our face several times every single day, so if a physical trait is bothersome it acts as a constant reminder. Not to mention, our face is what is presented to people each and every time we meet - we can’t cover up insecurities on our face quite so easily or as often as we can with insecurities with our body.

One facial feature that commonly attracts plastic surgery procedures, but is perhaps less commonly discussed in the media, is the chin.

In fact, chin implant surgery, or chin augmentation as it’s commonly referred to, is very popular among men in particular, with it consistently being among the top 3 most performed procedures on men every year. With that said, many women also seek a change to the appearance of their face with chin augmentation.

Finding a way to suitably tackle insecurities with the face - albeit in a natural, subtle way - can truly help transform an appearance and improve one’s self-esteem.

If you want to know more about chin implants, be sure to read on….

What does chin implant surgery involve?

Before the chin augmentation procedure gets underway, a patient receives general anesthesia so they are asleep during surgery. An incision is carefully and strategically cut either through the mouth or underneath the chin, allowing the plastic surgeon to insert an implant on top of the existing chin bone.

As with most implants, a chin implant is typically made of silicone and feels much like a very natural chin when touched. Signs of surgery are very well hidden, so nobody will be aware that you have undergone chin surgery following recovery - though of course, people who know you well will notice the improvement to your face.

All in all, chin implant surgery typically takes no longer than an hour. Once the plastic surgeon is happy with the placement of the chin implant, they will close the incision and cover the area with a bandage ready for you to wake from the anesthesia and begin the road to recovery.

Read: Cosmetic procedures that complement a facelift

Who are chin implants suitable for?

Chin implants offer a benefit to those who are unhappy with the current appearance of their profile. The chin and nose are two facial features that people often aren’t happy with when viewed from the side on, with a lack of jaw definition and/or a double chin being a common complaint. Both males and females aged 18 and over who are living with this sort of insecurity, and who would like to improve their jawline and create a more balanced appearance are likely to be best suited to chin implant surgery.

Are there any risks with chin implant surgery?

As with any surgery, there are potential risks involved – though these are drastically reduced when the procedure is carried out by a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon with adequate experience in carrying out this procedure.

Complications with anesthesia and the risk of infection are the two risks to be most aware of. Aside from choosing a reputable surgeon, the risk of infection can be greatly reduced by following all post-surgery instructions, and by refraining from smoking before and after the procedure.

You will also likely face some light swelling, though this can be mitigated by sleeping face up and should diminish within a matter of weeks following surgery.

Read: How long do chin implants last?

What is recovery like after chin augmentation?

Following chin augmentation, a patient will need around one full week to simply rest and allow the healing process to take place, with a dressing being applied and remaining in place for the first few days. The area around the chin may feel tender, tight, and stretched, but this usually subsides within a week or so.

After the first 7-10, most patients are ready to return to most daily activities, with more rigorous activities requiring a few extra weeks of waiting and recovering. Within approximately six weeks, most swelling should be gone, and the results of the procedure can be fully appreciated.

It’s important to realise that these are just general guidelines of what to expect during chin augmentation recovery. All patients respond differently to surgery and the recovery process, so do speak with your plastic surgeon if you have any specific concerns that relate to you.

Are you someone who is thinking about getting chin implants or maybe a facelift? If so, don’t hesitate to get in touch with me here at Harley Street Aesthetics to discuss the procedure in more detail. I offer a wide range of cosmetic procedures for the face, so you can be sure your surgery is in the very best hands. Contact me to book in your consultation by calling 0845 519 7232, e-mailing info@harleystreetaesthetics.com or by completing the online contact form.