Cheek & Chin Implants

A well-defined cheek and chin help give symmetry to the face and can make a big difference in one’s profile.  When people look in the mirror, they tend to focus on the fine wrinkling of the skin or the size and shape of their nose.  Even though few examine their cheeks and chins with the same discriminating eye, having a “weak chin” or “flat cheeks” can alter the aesthetics of one’s appearance.  Plastic surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty, or surgery of the nose, often suggest that changes in cheek, or chin size and shape may actually enhance your face as much as the nasal surgery.  It is not uncommon for a facial plastic surgeon to recommend cheek or chin surgery in addition to nasal surgery when he sees that cheek or chin augmentation is necessary to achieve facial balance.  For the most part, a cheek or chin implant is a relatively straightforward procedure that can make a huge difference.

As with all elective procedures, the key is to understand all aspects of the cheek or chin implant surgery.  Inserting an cheek or chin implant can easily help you attain a pleasing profile.  The results are usually greater facial symmetry and an increase in self-assurance.

Another option for facial improvement through chin surgery is sub mental liposuction.  In this procedure excess fatty tissue is removed to redefine the chin, or neckline.  Dr. Cohen will evaluate the elasticity of your skin in deciding on the most appropriate procedure for you. 

A consultation can help you select the type of surgery that addresses your concerns.

During the consultation, expect your plastic surgeon to thoroughly examine your chin and jaw to pinpoint problems.  In some cases, the cosmetic surgeon will recommend chin surgery as a supplement to rhinoplasty because a small chin can make the nose appear larger.  Your surgeon will discuss other factors that could influence the results of your surgery such as age, skin type, and attitudes toward surgery.  The surgical procedure will be described in detail along with reasonable projections.  If you make the decision to proceed with surgery, your surgeon will describe the technique indicated, the type of anesthesia to be used, the surgical facility, and any additional surgery that would enhance your results, as well as risks and costs.

To augment the chin, the surgeon begins by making an incision either in the natural crease line just under the chin or inside the mouth, where the gum and lower lip meet.  By gently stretching this tissue, the surgeon creates a space where an implant can be inserted.  The implant is made of synthetic material that feels much like natural tissue normally found in the chin.  With an available array of sizes and shapes, custom fitting of the implant can be exactly matched to the configurations of the patient’s face.  After implantation, the surgeon closes the incision with fine sutures.  No scarring is visible when the incision is made inside the mouth.  If the incision is made under the chin, the scar is usually imperceptible.  In the case of a cheek implant, the incision is made inside the mouth and the implant is stabilized over the cheekbone. 

Immediately following your cheek / chin implant surgery, the surgeon usually applies a dressing that will remain in place for two to three days.  It is common to experience some tenderness.  Post-operative discomfort can be alleviated with prescribed medications.  Chewing is limited after chin surgery, and a liquid and soft food diet may be required for a few days after surgery.  Many patients feel a stretched, tight sensation after the surgery, but this gradually disappears within a week.

Most visible swelling will diminish after approximately two weeks, at which time you can freely enjoy the results of your procedure.  Rigorous activity may be strictly prohibited for the first few weeks after surgery; however, normal activity can usually continue after approximately ten days.