Mentoplasty is the official name of the surgical procedure that makes a weak or receding chin appear more prominent. An implant is placed in a pocket over the bone of the chin. The goal is to strengthen the chin and give the face more balance and harmony. Sometimes it is necessary to correct the nose using rhinoplasty as well, though a stronger chin often makes the nose appear more balanced. Some patients also opt to undergo liposuction of the neck area in addition to, or independent of, chin augmentation. Neck liposuction makes the neck appear smoother and slimmer, and contributes to a more youthful appearance.
Dr. Waldman will make an incision under the chin and fat is then suctioned or directly excised, muscles are tightened, and a small amount of skin may be removed all depending on individual findings.
Dr. Waldman will make an incision under the chin and an implant is then placed into a small pocket specially sized to accommodate the implant. This way, the likelihood of the implant becoming displaced is extremely minimized.
After having a chin augmentation the patient may go home with a small pressure dressing over the neck where the liposuction was performed. No dressing is needed for chin augmentation alone. Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication and swelling, tenderness, and possible local numbness gradually subside within a month or two.
The implants we use at Waldman Schantz Plastic Surgery Center are a hard silastic or rubber material. We have used this material for over 25 years. Infection or extrusion is extremely rare.
Dr. Waldman performs most all of his neck and chin procedures in the office’s accredited state of the art surgical suite.
The patient can expect an improved profile, a more attractive jaw line that creates a better balance between the chin and other facial features, and a more youthful neck with better contour.
The specific risks and the suitability of these procedures for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally and major complications rarely occur.