Chin augmentation procedures are done with minimal scarring which are not readily visible to the eye. This is because these scars are present either inside the mouth or under the chin.
The appearance of the scars depends on various factors:
- Age – scars heal better and faster in young patients
- Skin type – scar healing differs in dry skin and oily skin
- Health – overall health of the patient also determines the healing of the scar
Understanding Chin Augmentation Procedures
A strong chin is a sign of beauty and helps to balance out the facial features thus enhancing facial harmony. A small or weak chin gives the appearance of a pout and makes the neck look undefined. It also accentuates the size of the nose, making it seem bigger.
Chin augmentation procedures are treatments to enhance shape and features of the jawline and chin. It can be done to widen, lengthen or modify the overall shape of the chin.
Chin augmentation procedure is usually undertaken by those who have an underdeveloped or undersized chin. The causes of underdeveloped or undersized chin could be age-related changes or due to genetics.
These augmentation procedures can be either surgical or non-surgical.
- Surgical chin augmentation includes insertion of chin implants or a procedure called genioplasty.
- Chin implants: This is the most common type of surgery performed for chin augmentation. These implants are made of biocompatible materials such as Silicone, Dacron or Teflon.
- Chin implants are available in various shapes and sizes, making it possible to achieve the desired results based on your chin anatomy. This procedure requires you to be under general anesthesia, to ensure comfort.
- The procedure involves creating a pocket between the chin bone and the chin muscles, into which the implant is inserted. The implant then attached to the bone using sutures.
- Genioplasty: Genioplasty is less frequently performed for chin augmentation. It involves the surgical reshaping of the jaw bone.
- It permanently alters the shape of the jaw bone after which the jaw is secured in place using metal plates or screws.
- Chin implants: This is the most common type of surgery performed for chin augmentation. These implants are made of biocompatible materials such as Silicone, Dacron or Teflon.
2. Non surgical chin augmentation, on the other hand, are minimally invasive procedures that involve injections of either synthetic dermal fillers or human fat fillers.
Surgical Chin Implants – Where Are the Incisions Made?
When Surgical Chin Implants are inserted , it is done through a cut or incision in the mouth (intra-oral) or under the chin (submental)
Intra-oral incision: These incisions are made inside the mouth. Surgeons make incisions inside the lower lip.
- It causes no external scarring.
- This method requires careful mouth hygiene during healing.
Submental incision: These incisions are made outside the mouth, under the chin.
- It causes external scarring in the under-chin region. This location is less visible to others. The scar is hidden in a natural crease.
- These incisions offer better control during the placement of the implant.
- It also reduces the chances of infections from occurring.
- Submental incisions are also preferred when the chin augmentation procedure is combined with other neck procedures (neck lift).
Non-Surgical Chin Enhancement with Fillers
Chin fillers can effectively contour the chin and create a stronger and more sculpted chin which is particularly noticeable in the profile view. By injecting the chin area with fillers, the volume is enhanced and the proportions of the face profile are improved.
Chin filler treatment is performed in 15 to 30 minutes. The results of fillers last upto 1 year. As the filler will be gradually metabolized by the body, your surgeon may recommend booster injections every six months to maintain optimal results.
The chin fillers can be either synthetic dermal fillers or human fat fillers.
- Dermal fillers: The process involves the careful injection of a dermal filler into targeted areas of the chin. It is a quick, relatively painless, out-patient procedure. Most dermal filler products contain lidocaine, a form of local anaesthesia to help with any minor pain.
- Hyaluronic acid-based fillers: Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance in the body, known for its ability to add volume and hydration.
- Hyaluronic acid-based fillers enhance the chin area by adding volume and sculpting the desired shape, seamlessly blending with the natural contours of your face.
- Since hyaluronic acid is a substance naturally found in the body, the risk of allergic reactions is extremely low. HA fillers can be quickly dissolved by injecting hyaluronidase, in case the patient is not happy with the results.
- Results typically last from six months to one year.
- Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA)-based fillers: These fillers have a thicker consistency and stimulate collagen production in the skin.
- Effects can last up to 18 months or more. The results produced by CaHA fillers can’t be reversed
- Poly-L-Lactic acid-based fillers: Poly-L-Lactic acid is a collagen stimulator that works over time to reinforce structure and improve skin firmness. It’s suitable for patients who prefer gradual improvement rather than immediate results.
- The effects can last up to two years.
- Fat fillers: Fat injections involve collection of the patient’s own fat, and transporting it via micro-liposuction into the chin. The collected fat is first purified and then injected into the patient’s chin using micro-droplet technique, to achieve the desired shape and size.
How Visible Are Chin Surgery Scars?
The scars of chin augmentation procedures are visible to only a minimal extent.
If an intra-oral incision was made, the scar will not be externally visible. If a submental incision was made, then a small scar may be visible, but is hidden under the chin.
Scarring is minimized by using proper techniques during the surgery, including precise suturing and avoiding too much tension on the tissue. Use of fine sutures also reduces the appearance of the scar.
Tips to Minimize Post-Surgery Scarring
Handy tips to minimize post-surgery scarring:
- Proper post-operative site care: Clean the augmentation site regularly with mild soap and water. Use prescribed ointments or creams as directed by the surgeon to avoid infections.
- Avoid sun exposure: Avoid exposing the scar to direct sunlight as the UV rays can darken the scar, making it more noticeable. Use sunscreen with high SPF (SPF 30 or higher) before going outdoors.
- Use Scar creams: Scar creams containing ingredients like onion extract or vitamin E should be applied over the scar to accelerate healing. It helps to help soften and flatten raised scars over time.
- Apply silicone sheets: application of silicone sheets is widely recommended by surgeons. They should be applied directly over the scar, ensuring they cover the entire area. This should continue for several weeks or as directed by the surgeon.
- Keep the scar moisturised: it is advisable to apply a recommended moisturizer to the incision area. This helps in reducing scar formation and promotes smooth skin.
How to Choose Between Surgical and Non-Surgical Options
Surgical chin augmentation is preferable for those who have a weak chin structure, developmental abnormalities of the face and age-related chin recession. It is also preferred for those having jaw/chin damage due to accidents. If you are looking for a permanent solution for your chin, surgical chin augmentation is best for you, since the implants are built to last.
You should choose non surgical chin augmentation if you do not desire to undergo surgery for your chin. Non surgical augmentation can also be used to explore aesthetic preferences before committing to permanent surgical augmentation.
Factors to consider while choosing non surgical chin augmentation:
- Dermal fillers are a great option for making subtle changes in the shape or definition of the chin. However, they are not as long lasting as surgical chin augmentation or fat fillers. The injections may need to be repeated to maintain the results over time. Using chin fillers is a reversible procedure. If a patient is not happy with the result, they can choose to have the filler dissolved or simply wait for the filler to be metabolised and removed by the body over time.
- Fat fillers are the preferred choice for those looking for softer and smoother results, leading to a more natural-looking appearance. The results of fat filler last longer than the dermal fillers and also lead to less chances of adverse effects.
Your surgeon will be able to advise you on which procedure (Surgical and Non-Surgical Options) is most appropriate for you based on your face anatomy as well as your needs and preferences.
Expert Advice for Smooth Healing
Experts recommend the following strategies to facilitate smooth healing of the chin after augmentation procedures:
1. Wear a chin support garment: after the surgery, the surgeon may prescribe a chin support garment to be worn. This helps to support the chin and its structures while healing takes place. It needs to be worn for 1-7 days (day and night), based on your surgeon’s recommendation.
2. Care while washing the face: it is important to wash the face gently without applying too much force at the augmentation site to avoid displacing the implant. It is best to not touch around or press the chin area.
3. Mouth care: oral hygiene should be maintained by rinsing the mouth and using mouthwash till the stitches dissolve. While brushing your teeth, careful not to brush over the incison site
4. Avoid strenuous activity: Heavy lifting or intense exercise can strain the incision area. It is best to refrain from strenuous activities for at least two weeks.
