OUR PROCEDURES & SERVICES
Chin and Cheek Augmentation Face
The Procedure
Chin augmentation, also known as genioplasty or mentoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to strengthen the appearance of a receding chin by increasing its projection. This procedure improves facial profile by creating a better balance between the chin and other facial features. Chin implants are made in various shapes and sizes, and are made out of both solid and semi-solid materials.
Cheek augmentation, or otherwise known as malar augmentation, is another surgical procedure designed to enhance the contours of the face. Augmentation of the cheekbones is achieved by placing a specially designed implant over them, resulting in a fuller, more sculpted look. Facial implants provide a permanent and predictable result while bringing the chin or cheekbones into balance with the rest of the face.
The Method(s)
There are two techniques for adding prominence and contour to the chin. One, performed through an incision inside the mouth, requires moving the chinbone. A more common approach involves insertion of a chin implant. The implant is inserted through incisions inside the mouth or on the underside of the chin. If the incision is inside the mouth, it is closed with sutures (stitches) that later dissolve. If the incision is under the chin, removable sutures are used. In the latter case, surgery usually leaves only a faint scar that is barely visible underneath the chin. This procedure may take between 30 minutes to one hour.
Cheek implant surgery usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes. When cheek implants are being placed in conjunction with another cosmetic procedure, such as a facelift, forehead lift or eyelid surgery, the implants may be inserted through the incisions made for those procedures. Otherwise, an incision will be made either inside the upper lip or lower eyelid. A pocket is then formed and an implant is inserted.
Ideal Candidate
In general, the best candidates for chin augmentation are those in good physical and psychological condition, informed about the limitations of the surgery, free of known allergies to the implant material, and realistic in their expectations for the outcome. Chin implants are often recommended to patients undergoing nose surgery to achieve better facial balance. In patients 38-50 years old, cheek implants can improve the mid-facial contour and restore sagging mid-facial soft tissues, thus postponing the need for a facelift.
Surgery and Anesthesia
The operation may take place in an office-based facility, a freestanding surgical center or a hospital outpatient facility. In some cases, facial implant surgery may require only local anesthesia combined with a sedative. However, more frequently, a general anesthesia may be recommended. Depending on the patient's overall medical condition and whether another cosmetic procedure was performed simultaneously with the facial implant surgery, Dr. Chiu may also recommend an overnight stay at the surgical facility or hospital.
Recovery
You can expect to experience some discomfort and swelling in the affected area for several days after your chin surgery. It is normal to experience some temporary difficulty with smiling and talking. Black and blue marks may be visible around the chin and neck. Dr. Chiu will instruct you about dental hygiene, eating and any restrictions to your activities after surgery.
There will be dietary restrictions as well as limitations to your activities following your cheek surgery. Again, these instructions will vary, especially if another procedure was performed along with your implant surgery. However, you should be aware that your ability to move your mouth and lips may be diminished temporary. Stitches used to close the incisions inside your mouth usually dissolve within about 10 days.
Risks
A facial implant can shift slightly out of alignment and a second operation may be necessary to replace it in its proper position. Infection can occur with any operation. If infection were to occur around a facial implant and did not clear up after treatment with antibiotics, the implant might have to be temporarily removed and replaced at a later time. Other, less-frequent risks may be associated with certain implants. Dr. Chiu will review all risks specific to your procedure with you during your surgical consultation.
Your New Look
You may not be able to accurately evaluate your appearance for weeks, or perhaps even months. Give yourself plenty of time to get used to your new look. Because Dr. Chiu specializes in natural-looking surgical results, you will find that most people won't recognize that you've had facial implant surgery - only that you look better!
*Some information extracted from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons
