It is not uncommon for prospective patients to approach cosmetic surgeons with concerns about the shape, size or structure of their chin. Slightly rarer is the issue of having little to no chin structure to speak of, which along with aesthetic dissatisfaction can also result in a problematic overbite.
Most people are aware of chin reduction surgery, but comparatively few realise that it is also perfectly possible to increase the size and definition of a chin through a variety of surgical procedures.
Prior to undergoing chin surgery in London, your surgeon will conduct a detailed assessment of the structure of your chin and jaw, which may involve a series of scans or x-rays. At which point, one of the following treatment options may be recommended, if you are considered a suitable candidate for cosmetic surgery:
Alloplastic Genioplasty
This is a type of chin enhancement surgery that is purely cosmetic, therefore does not affect the positioning of the jaws or teeth. The procedure may involve the precision placement of a chin implant, prefabricated from safe synthetic materials.
Chin implant surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, during which the custom-made implant is inserted through an incision either under the chin or inside the mouth. The whole procedure is performed with strong focus on minimal scarring and the shortest possible recovery time, with overnight stays at the clinic or hospital rarely being necessary.
Horizontal Sliding Genioplasty
This is a more ‘structural’ form of cosmetic surgery, which along with improving facial balance and definition can also enhance jaw function by correcting an overbite. The bone structure of the chin itself is adjusted, repositioned and secured in place, in order to enhance its appearance and profile.
In effect, Horizontal Sliding Genioplasty works in a similar way to a chin implant, only by using the patient’s existing bone in place of an implant made from synthetic materials. It is a more extensive procedure with a longer recovery period, though can serve an important functional purpose for those with health or wellbeing issues related to the size, shape and structure of their chin.
Additional Complementary Procedures
For a more comprehensive aesthetic transformation, patients may also choose to undergo additional complementary procedures either after or at the same time as chin enhancement. Typical examples of which include neck lift or face lift surgery, which when performed alongside chin augmentation can dramatically improve the appearance of the face, chin and neck.
In addition, patients undergoing certain types of rhinoplasty may also benefit from chin augmentation, in order to maintain balance and proportionality across the face.
Approximate Recovery Time
The time it takes to recover from chin augmentation surgery will depend entirely on the nature and extent of the procedure performed. As a rough guideline, a compression dressing will usually be worn for the first five days following surgery, after which residual bruising and swelling may remain for up to two weeks.
The full visual and functional benefits of chin augmentation surgery may not be apparent until 2 to 3 months after the procedure, during which it is important to follow the aftercare instructions of your surgeon to the letter.
