Chin Augmentation

It is suitable for achieving a more gentle or less dramatic augmentation (genioplasty). The implant is inserted onto the surface of the jaw bone lower rim either via the mouth or from an incision under the chin. The best material to use is rigid porous polyurethane (plastic) which is fixed to the bone with screws so it won’t move. The disadvantage of chin implants is that it uses plastic, not your own tissue, and so it is prone to infection and migration of the implant. It also may erode underlying bone mass.

The more effective way to achieve a natural chin augmentation (genioplasty) is to move the bone of the rim of the lower jaw forward. A cut is made in the jaw bone via an incision in the lower gum. The chin point slides forward and is fixed with screws. This has the advantage not only of a more dramatic augmentation (genioplasty) but also allows lengthening in height of the chin. Because the patients own bone is used to augment rather than plastic, it is a stronger and more stable augmentation (genioplasty). It also avoids possible complications of a plastic implant.

The operation involves a general anaesthetic and a one night hospital stay. Discomfort from the procedure is usually surprisingly little. Return to work can usually be is two weeks or so.