"Chinplants" or Chin Implants
As you grow older, you may be looking more intently in the mirror: you focus on your nose, your ears, the wrinkles in your skin. But what about your chin? Surgeons who specialize in rhinoplasty (“nose jobs”) usually would suggest also getting a chin implant (or “chinplant”) to keep the facial balance that would be achieved with the initial nose surgery. A well-defined chin can help give your face a well-balanced look and distinct profile.
There are a few options in the world of chin surgery. The first in achieving a pleasing, balanced profile is by inserting an implant or by moving the chin bone forward to build a receding chin or to reduce a jutting or prominent chin. Another option is submental liposuction in which I would remove excess fatty tissue to redefine the chin or neckline. Chin surgery is not just an aesthetic choice. People suffering from dental malocclusions or birth defects in the actual jaw structure can opt for chin surgery to improve the form and function of the lower half of your face and greatly enrich your appearance.
If you’re interested in a chin augmentation, the first thing I would do as a surgeon is make an incision on the natural crease line under the chin or inside the mouth where the gum and lower lip meet. Then, I will gently stretch the tissue, creating a space to insert an implant. This implant is made of synthetic material that feels like natural tissue normally formed in the chin and is available in a variety of shapes and sizes. This variety allows for custom fitting, giving the patient the most natural look possible. Once I insert the implant, I will close the incision with fine sutures. If the incision is in the mouth, you shouldn’t be able to notice any scarring. Incision on the chin is usually undetectable.
For those who want a chin reduction, I would make the same incision in the mouth or under the chin. Instead of an implant, I would sculpt the bone to the desired size. For orthognathic (surgery to correct jaw and face conditions that braces can’t fix) surgery, I will make an incision inside the mouth to reposition the bones in your face. This procedure can take from half an hour to three hours, depending on the extent of the work.
The first few days after the surgery, you will experience some tenderness. Chewing will be limited and you may need a soft food or liquid diet. After six weeks, the swelling should be all but gone and you can enjoy the results of this procedure.
Chinplants—like all facial plastic surgery—makes it possible to elevate your looks and to eliminate the signs of aging. Looking your best makes you feel your best. To make an appointment with Dr. Turk, call 212-421-4845 in Manhattan or 516-921-8989 in Long Island.
