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Chin augmentation describes the process of placing a chin implant into the chin to improve the appearance of a weak or small chin. A small chin can make someone less attractive both in the frontal and the side profile views. A weak chin can also make a nose appear too large and throw off the balance of one’s facial features. The type of implant that Dr. Lam prefers to use is known as an extended anatomic implant made of silicone. He finds silicone to be the ideal material because it does not compress (unlike Gore-Tex), stays very stable, and is easily removable (unlike MedPor). The chin implant, once done, is a permanent solution that provides a lifetime of enjoyment.
Key Points:
- Dr. Lam use of an extended anatomic implant and likes to refer to the procedure as truly a “jawline implant”. In the old days, “button” implants were used that had problems after a while because these short implants could shift over time. Dr. Lam’s implant has wings that are tucked under the periosteum (lining of the bone) and placed under the mentalis (chin) muscle so that it should never move and should remain stable for one’s lifetime. In addition, these extended implants create an encapsulation with collagen tissue that keeps it firmly in position.
- It is important before contemplating a chin implant to ensure that one’s dentition (bite) is normal and does not need orthodontic (braces) or orthognathic surgery (jawbone advancement). If one’s bite is normal or if one has had braces already, then a chin implant can offer an excellent solution. However, some individuals who have not had their orthodontic work performed may elect to have orthognathic surgery, which can be considerably more expensive with a much longer recovery time. However, it should be considered as an alternative to chin augmentation with a chin implant.
- Men and women differ in what may be considered an ideal chin size and degree of projection. Using Gonzalez-Ulloa’s line drawn through the nation (nasal root) and perpendicular to the Frankfort Horizontal line, we can determine general guidelines for ideal chin projection. Men should be at the line or slightly in front of the line. Conversely, women should be at the line or slightly behind the line. When unsure of the exact size of the chin implant, it is almost always better to upsize a male slightly and err on a smaller size for a woman.
I highly recommend Dr. Lam. He is a perfectionist and took the time to listen to my concerns and explain the procedure in detail. His staff has always been warm and welcoming from the day of my consultation, throughout the procedure and follow-up appointments. I am very happy with the results of my procedure! Thank you Dr. Lam!
Facelift and Chin Implant Testimonial