Chin Augmentation / Reduction

Conveniently located to serve Washington DC, Arlington, Bethesda

What is Chin augmentation/reduction surgery?

A chin augmentation or reduction surgery is a procedure that is used to achieve facial harmony and better proportion in patients who have a chin that doesn’t match the rest of their face. You may have a chin that is too large (which masculinizes the face) or a chin that is too small which (feminizes the face).  A small chin can also lead to more loose skin of the neck or the appearance of a double chin.  Chin surgery can be used to shape the chin and change the volume for improved facial aesthetics.

Who is a good candidate?

Anyone who is healthy, has a small or overly large chin may benefit.

How is the surgery performed?

For chin reduction, an incision is made inside the mouth to avoid external scars.  A high speed bone burr is used to shave and sculpt the bone. In some cases where the chin is extremely, the bone has to be cut and remodeled.  The incision is then closed in layers. 

Chin augmentation is generally performed with chin implants.  These can be placed either from inside the mouth or under the chin depending on your preference.  A space is created and a permanent silicone implant is placed. The incisions are closed in layers.

Recovery

Swelling and possibly some numbness of the chin and lower lip can be present for a few weeks to a few months.  A limited diet and mouthwash will be recommended for a short time.  Most patients are back to work and the gym in a few days.  External incisions may require suture removal.

Risks

1. Lip/chin numbness – most often resolves within a few months, but can rarely be permanent
2. Witches chin – the mentalis muscle is resuspended after surgery, but in rare cases when this does not heal right, chin drooping is possible.  
3. Tooth injury – rare, but could require dental work
4. Swelling – common, but generally resolves within a few months
5. Wound healing issues – given the location of the incision, some patients experience slow healing of this incision
6. Infection – because the mouth has an abundance of bacteria, infection is a possibility, this could require antibiotics or drainage
7. Poor cosmesis – possible under/overresection poor shape is possible depending on healing
8. Implant infection – could require antibiotics or removal
9. Implant movement – shifting of an implant may require revision
10. Under/overcorrection – although every attempt is made to match your expectations, a small percentage of patients may feel that their chin is still too large or small.

Before & After