Chin Surgery

Chin surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a reshaping of the chin either by enhancement or reduction to bring better proportion to the face. This procedure enhances the facial structure by correcting the appearance of a weak or exaggerated jawline.

While many individuals actively focus upon aspects of their face like the nose and ears, the size and shape of the chin can have a dramatic impact upon overall appearance.

A strong chin will make a face appear stronger, while a weak one will diminish features. For instance, when cartoonists draw likenesses, they tend to focus on a few features, the chin being one of them. This is because the chin forms a pertinent part of the identity of a face.

Because the chin is so significant, chin implants are often recommended during consultation for other elective surgeries like rhinoplasty, face lift, or neck lift. If you are dissatisfied with your features, but unsure which aspect should be altered, chin surgery may be a solution.

Techniques for chin surgery

Chin surgery involves two primary procedures: chin enhancement and chin reduction. In both cases, an incision is made either on the natural line under the chin, or inside of the mouth.

Chin enhancement or chin augmentation involves stretching the tissue to allow for placement of an implant. Chin implants come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes, and Dr. Maddali will help you choose which is best to accomplish your cosmetic goals.

Chin reduction surgery involves a careful reshaping of the bone and cartilage that composes the shape of the chin, resulting in a carefully proportioned reduction in size.

If the incision is inside of the mouth, the scar is invisible. When the incision is under the chin, the scar is often imperceptible, blending with the natural curvature of the face.

How long is recovery following chin surgery?

After chin surgery, a dressing is applied and remains in place for two to three days. Because chewing could upset the procedure, a liquid diet may be prescribed for a few days as well. Tenderness and some discomfort are common, though any pain can be improved with medication.

It may take several weeks for the swelling to subside, but you should be able to see the results of your surgery within one to two months.

To learn more about chin implantation surgery in San Francisco, contact the plastic surgery office of Sirish Maddali MD.