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Chin augmentation

• Overview
• Recovery
• Risks

Definition:

A chin augmentation is a surgical procedure to reshape or enhance the size of the chin.

Alternative Names:

Augmentation mentoplasty; Genioplasty

Description:

Chin augmentation is usually done to balance the face, by extending the chin in relationship to the nose. Thousands of these surgeries are done successfully each year. Surgery may be performed in the surgeon's office, a hospital, or an outpatient clinic.

X-rays of the face and chin are taken, and used to determine what part of the chin will be operated on.

One surgical approach is to make a cut inside the mouth along the lower gum. This gives the surgeon access to the chin bone. The surgeon uses a bone saw or chisel to make a second cut through the jaw bone. The jaw bone is moved forward to the desired position and wired or screwed in place. The cut is closed with stitches and a bandage is applied. Since the surgery is performed inside the mouth, you can't see any scars.

When only a little bit of chin augmentation is needed to round out the chin, the surgeon may use real bone or an implant made of silicone, Teflon, or Dacron. For this procedure, a cut is made either inside the mouth or outside under the chin. A pocket is created in front of the chin bone and under the muscles, and the implant is placed inside. The cut is closed with stitches and a bandage is applied. The resulting scar is barely visible.

Surgery to correct bite problems can be done at the same time as chin surgery.  

Indications:

The best candidates for chin augmentation are people with weak or receding chins (microgenia), but with a normal dental bite. Discuss any expectations of looking and feeling better after surgery with the plastic surgeon before any surgery. Keep in mind that the desired result is improvement, not perfection.

References:

McGrath MH. Elective plastic surgical procedures in adolescence.  Adolesc Med Clin . 2004; 15(3): 487-502.

Cummings CW, Flint PW, Haughey BH, et al. Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 4th ed. St Louis, Mo; Mosby; 2005:810-811.

• Review Date: 11/10/2005
• Reviewed By: Edward W. Chang, MD, DDS, Director of Facial Plastics Surgery Education, Assistant Professor of Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery, Columbia University-College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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