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Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery

Chin implant surgery, also known as genioplasty or chin augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at addressing the appearance and balance of the chin and lower face. This surgical technique involves the insertion of an implant to alter the projection and contour of the chin. The procedure is tailored to address the specific needs and goals of each patient.

Why consider Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery

Alter size, shape of the chin

Altered Facial Proportion

Refine Jawline Definition

Concealable Scarring

Chin Implants To Address Retrogenia in Melbourne VIC

What is Retrogenia?

Retrogenia, commonly known as a receding chin, refers to a condition where the chin is positioned further back or lacks the desired projection, leading to an imbalanced or less defined lower face. This can result in a less prominent jawline and an overall appearance of a weaker chin profile. While retrogenia doesn’t typically impact the functional aspects of the face.

What is chin implant (genioplasty) surgery

The most popular and most common method surgeons use in chin augmentation, or chin contouring is through the use of implants. A defined jawline along a firm chin plays a role in determining the definition and symmetry of facial features. However, as we age and begin to lose skin and muscle tone, we also start to lose the definition and symmetry.

A small and indented chin, an undefined jaw, asymmetry in the lower third of the face, can be present from birth, but also acquired during life as a result of an injury. When a more extensive procedure is necessary, surgeons, in collaboration with patients, may decide to use a more complex method that will deliver the most visible results. This procedure involves surgical augmentation of the chin by a specialist surgeon in the field. However, in patients who do not have an extensive case, the best option is the surgical placing of a silicone implant that will address the chin, alter the missing volume, including asymmetries or other imperfections.

Am I a Suitable Candidate For Chin Implants (Genioplasty) Surgery?

Common characteristics that make someone a suitable candidate include:

  • Retrogenia: Individuals with a receding or underdeveloped chin that affects their facial symmetry and balance.
  • Desire for Aesthetic Change: Those seeking to alter their chin’s projection and create a stronger jawline.
  • Good Health: Being in overall good health is crucial for any surgical procedure.
  • Realistic Expectations: Understanding the potential outcomes of the surgery and having realistic expectations.
  • Non-Smoker: Non-smokers tend to have better healing and reduced complications.
  • Facial Imbalance: Individuals with facial imbalance due to retrogenia (weak chin) in relation to other facial features.

A thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon can help determine if you’re a suitable candidate and discuss your specific goals and options.

Why Patients Might Consider Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery

Some of the key reasons why patients choose to undergo surgery include:

  • Altered Facial Proportion: Chin implants can help to alter your facial features, creating a more proportionate appearance.
  • Jawline Definition: The surgery can create a stronger and more defined jawline, addressing the overall contours of your face.
  • Concealable Scarring: In most cases, the incisions for chin implants are made inside the mouth or in inconspicuous areas, resulting in minimal visible scarring.
  • Customized Results: Chin implants come in various sizes and shapes, allowing for a tailored approach to achieve your desired aesthetic outcome.
  • Long-Lasting Results: Chin implants are designed to provide lasting results.

It’s essential to consult with a skilled plastic surgeon to discuss your individual goals and determine if chin implant surgery is the right choice for you.

Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery Procedure

Genioplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to alter the appearance of the chin and address facial balance. Although the procedure is tailored to each patient it generally follows the following steps:

  • Anesthesia: The procedure begins with the administration of general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the surgery.
  • Incision Placement: A small incision is made in a strategic location to access the chin area. The incision is often placed underneath the chin or inside the mouth along the lower lip. This placement ensures that any resulting scars are inconspicuous.
  • Implant Insertion: The surgeon carefully creates a pocket in the chin tissue to accommodate the implant. The implant is then placed securely within the pocket. The type and size of the implant are determined based on your facial anatomy and desired outcome.
  • Adjustment and Positioning: The surgeon ensures that the implant is correctly positioned to achieve the desired aesthetic results. They take into account factors such as symmetry and facial balance.
  • Incision Closure: Once the implant is properly placed, the incision is closed using sutures. If the incision is made inside the mouth, absorbable sutures are often used.
  • Dressings and Bandages: Sterile dressings and bandages are applied to protect the incision site and provide support to the chin area during the initial healing period.
  • Recovery and Follow-Up: After the procedure, you will be monitored in a recovery area before being allowed to go home. You will receive post-operative care instructions to promote healing and minimize discomfort. It’s important to attend follow-up appointments to ensure that your healing progresses as expected.

Recovery After Chin Implant Surgery

The recovery process following chin implant (genioplasty) surgery is generally well-tolerated. Here’s what you can generally expect during the recovery period:

  • Dressings and Bandages: You’ll have dressings and bandages applied to protect the surgical site and provide support.
  • Discomfort and Swelling: Some discomfort and swelling are common immediately after the surgery. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to manage any discomfort.
    • Bruising and swelling will gradually subside.
  • Rest and Limited Activity: Rest is essential in the initial days after surgery. Avoid strenuous activities and follow your surgeon’s recommendations for activity restrictions.
  • Diet: A soft diet is recommended in the first week to avoid strain on the chin area.
  • Incision Care: If your incision is inside your mouth, maintaining good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection.
  • Follow-Up Appointments: You’ll have scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your healing progress.
  • Resuming Normal Activities: Many patients can resume their regular activities within a few weeks, but more strenuous activities may need to be delayed a bit longer.
  • Final Results: While you’ll notice a significant change in the weeks following surgery, it’s important to note that the final results may take a few months to fully reveal themselves.
  • Scarring: The incisions made during the surgery will continue to heal and fade over time. Incisions made inside the mouth are generally well-hidden.

It’s essential to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon to aid with a smooth recovery. Keep any follow-up appointments and communicate any concerns or unusual symptoms to your surgeon promptly.

Risks and Potential Complications

While chin implant surgery is generally safe and well-tolerated, like any surgical procedure, it comes with potential risks and complications. These can include:

  • Infection
  • Bleeding
  • Hematoma
  • Implant Shifting or Malposition
  • Implant Extrusion
  • Nerve Damage
  • Scarring
  • Unsatisfactory Aesthetic Outcome
  • Allergic Reaction
  • Anesthesia Risks
  • Asymmetry
  • Poor Wound Healing
  • Need for Revision

It’s important to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon about these potential risks and complications before deciding to undergo chin implant (genioplasty) surgery. By choosing an experienced surgeon and following pre-operative and post-operative instructions carefully, you can minimise the chances of these complications.

For more information about the risks and potential complications of Chin Implant Surgery please visit the risks of surgery page.

Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery Melbourne Cost How much is Chin Implant (Genioplasty) Surgery Melbourne?

The cost of surgery in Australia can be influenced by several factors, such as the type of implant chosen, the complexity of the procedure, the surgeon’s fees, the length of hospital stay, and other related expenses.

For accurate and personalised information regarding the cost of your Chin Augmentation (Genioplasty) surgery, it is best to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, they can provide a detailed breakdown of the expenses involved and address any specific concerns you may have.

Chin Implant (Genioplasty) FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions About Chin Implants

What causes a person to have a retruded chin (weak chin)?

Genetics play a large role when it comes to Retrogenia. In most cases, however, Retrogenia is purely a cosmetic concern rather than a medical one.

Does getting older make a receding or retruded chin look weaker?

  • A recessed or diagonally slanted-looking chin appearance can become more prominent as you age.
  • Jaw area bone atrophy and skin sagging over time DO tend to worsen the appearance of a recessed chin or weak jawline.
  • Again, however, it is primarily a cosmetic concern, not a medical one.
  • Liposuction under the chin may also be an option, and/or double chin fat reduction injections, to assist with gaining a firmer or more horizontal looking jawline.

NOTE: some retrogenia conditions, usually related to congenital conditions with a receding lower mandible/lower jaw, can lead to impaired respiratory function in infants (this is often transitory but can vary) For more information on small lower jaws in infants, search for information on Pierre Robin sequence or Treacher Collins syndrome.

Does having a receding chin mean having an overbite?

An overbite is when the upper teeth or jawline do not meet the lower teeth or lower jawline. Instead, they protrude (extend) more than the lower jaw and tooth line.

  • Some individuals born with a receding chin (and others who develop one over time) DO have an overbite condition.
  • For these individuals, it is possible that corrective orthodontics may be an option.

How long do chin implants last?

  • Most implants last a lifetime. However, if the implants are made in part of your tissue, instead of artificial materials, absorption will occur over time.

Can my body reject implants?

  • Implants are often made of artificial materials and as a result, they can cause a reaction (infection). If this occurs then they will need to be removed from the body. Fortunately, this not common because the body generally responds well to implants.
Dr Craig Rubinstein
Dr Broughton Snell
Dr Stephen Kleid
Dr Gary Kode

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001124843 Dr Craig Rubinstein

Patient safety, care and satisfaction are the top priorities for Dr Craig Rubinstein, a respected Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Melbourne. With over 25 years of experience especially in all areas of Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery, but particularly in breast surgery, he combines technical skill with a compassionate approach, emphasising strong relationships with his patients.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001190266 Dr Broughton Snell

Dr Broughton Snell is a Specialist Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. His training in Plastic Surgery took place in Australia and the United States of America (USA).

Dr Snell is a fully qualified specialist plastic surgeon having completed his Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons in plastic and reconstructive surgery. He has also spent time following the completion of this qualification gaining further experience and training in the area of craniomaxillofacial surgery, training which he completed in world-renowned centres here and in the United States.

ENT (Ear, Nose and Throat) Surgeon MED0001052799 Dr Stephen Kleid

Dr Stephen Kleid is an experienced Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Surgeon (Otolaryngologist) based in Masada with a passion for Septo-rhinoplasty, Septoplasty, as well as, a strong interest in Rhinoplasty Revision.

Dr Kleid trained at Melbourne University, then completed surgical training at various hospitals including Royal Melbourne, Royal Children’s, The Eye and Ear and St Vincents. He worked as a surgeon at the University of Florida Medical school for further experience.

Specialist Plastic Surgeon MED0001405964 Dr Gary Kode

Dr Gary Kode is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon, with experience in Aesthetic and Reconstructive Surgery, as well as non-surgical treatments.

Dr Kode is a member of several organisations, including the Australian Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (ASAPS), The International Confederation for Plastic and Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, and he holds a Fellowship with the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons.

What to do next?

Our Patient Liaison Team can assist with any questions you may have when considering a procedure. You can send in an enquiry form below or call our Melbourne Clinic between 9 am – 5 pm Monday - Friday.

Disclaimer: Results depend on individual patient circumstances and can vary significantly. Results may also be impacted by a variety of factors including your lifestyle, weight, nutritional intake and overall health. Consult your Specialist Plastic Surgeon for details. This information is general in nature and is not intended to be medical advice nor does it constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Surgery risks and complications will be covered in detail during a consultation with your Surgeon.

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