Chin Implant

Conveniently located to serve Seattle and Bellevue

A “weak or recessed” chin can be improved by a chin augmentation, either by placing an implant or from the advancement of the bone, aka “sliding genioplasty.” By increasing the projection or vertical length of the chin, we can significantly change the appearance of the chin, jawline, and nose-chin relationship. Chin implants are permanent in nature. Other options for chin augmentation surgery in Bellevue, WA include sliding genioplasty and fillers. A filler injection can enhance the chin and is customizable; however, this is only a temporary solution and has to be repeated.

Chin Aesthetics and Anatomy

A recessed or weak chin can be defined as one that lacks the ideal degree of projection. Traditionally, the ideal chin profile is 1 mm to 3 mm posterior to a vertical line dropped from the vermilion border of the lower lip, as seen with the Frankfort line. If the profile is behind that, there may be not enough projection.

Example of a silicone-based solid implant for chin augmentation

Type of Chin Implants

Silicone: The most common type of implant used for chin augmentation and shaping. Available in different sizes and shapes. Can be placed via an external incision from a submental approach or intraorally through the mouth. Easy to remove if necessary and does not incorporate into the tissue.

Polyethylene aka Medpor: These implants incorporate and have ingrowth into the tissue and stabilize well.

Chin-Augmentation Techniques

Intraoral Approach:

An incision is made through the mucosa of the lower mouth from inside the mouth. The incision is hidden because it is inside the mouth. There are pros and cons to this approach, which your surgeon Dr. Parikh will discuss with you at your consultation in Bellevue, WA.

External Approach (Submental):

An incision is made in the submental region, usually in the crease under the chin. The implant is placed through this external incision. This is a great approach and leaves a small scar that is fairly well hidden since it is underneath the chin.

Genioplasty:

A cut or osteotomy is performed on the mandible or bony chin. The bone is then fixated with a plate and screws as it is advanced in a new forward position. This is performed from an intraoral, or inside-the-mouth, approach. No implant is used in this case.

Before & After Photos

Before

After

Chin Implant Surgery Gallery

View Gallery *Individual Results may vary

Combination Procedures with Chin Augmentation

Rhinoplasty and Chin Augmentation:

Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, can be combined with chin augmentation if the chin is retrusive, or “weak.” The two procedures can often balance each other in the overall facial aesthetic profile.

Submental Liposuction and Jawline Liposuction with Chin Augmentation:

Liposuction of the double chin, or submental area, with jawline liposuction, can define the chin and jawline. This in combination with a chin implant or augmentation in Bellevue, WA can really enhance the overall facial aesthetic in the right candidate.

Candidates

Patients are generally in good health. The chin is set back or appears small in the forward or downward position. This will be assessed in your consultation. It is important to set the goals and expectations during a thorough consultation with Dr. Parikh prior to your procedure. We can offer chin-augmentation surgery either awake or asleep in Bellevue, WA.

Post-Operative Recovery After a Chin Implant

The procedure is an outpatient same-day surgery. Patients are sent home with a garment wrap, which stays on for 1 week. We advise that you sleep in an elevated position for 2 weeks to help with swelling. Residual swelling can last up to 3 months. If sutures are used, they are removed in 1 week.

Chin Implant Complications

• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Infection
• Scarring
• Asymmetry
• Injury to adjacent structures
• Numbness
• Malposition

With any surgical procedure, complications can occur, but the risk is generally low. We encourage you to ask about complications during your visit with Dr. Parikh. Dr. Parikh will ensure that your safety is his first priority, and you can discuss any concerns in great detail. The procedure will be tailored around your specific medical history.

Risks of Chin Implant Surgery

When performed by a qualified experienced cosmetic surgeon, chin augmentation is associated with very few complications. Possible risks include infection, hematoma (internal bleeding), a shift in implant position, poor scarring, and side effects from anesthesia.

You can further minimize risk by choosing a cosmetic surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. ABCS diplomates have undergone extensive fellowship training in cosmetic surgery, operate exclusively in accredited surgical facilities, and use a board-certified MD anesthesiologist for general anesthesia.

Chin Implant Surgery Cost

The overall cost of a chin implant surgery in Bellevue, WA is affected by anesthesia fees, hospital fees, post-surgery garments, and medications. Price is also impacted by medical tests, surgeon’s fees, and the exact techniques employed.