Chin surgery is a cosmetic procedure performed to balance the face. In some cases, it may be performed with other facial procedures, or may be part of a facial reconstruction.

Many times a plastic surgeon may recommend chin surgery to a patient having rhinoplasty in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose.

Chin surgery helps provide a harmonious balance to your facial features so that you feel better about the way you look.

Am I candidate for chin surgery?

• Individuals whose facial bones have reached physical maturity, which generally occurs in late adolescence
• Individuals who are bothered by a small chin, weak jaw or lack of facial contour
• Healthy individuals who have no major medical conditions
• Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for their facial implant and/or chin surgery.

There are many different ways to achieve symmetry of the chin area, including:

Chin augmentation,

which is completed through a small incision inside the mouth or underneath the chin, in addition to creating a small pocket above the chin bone and the below the chin muscle. A customized implant is then inserted into the pocket. Augmenting the chin can also be completed through an incision made inside the mouth through which the surgeon takes a portion of the chin bone, moves it slightly forward and secures it into place. After surgery, the chin may be taped to hold the implant in place until it is firmly in its new position.

Correction of a Double Chin (submental lipectomy),

which treats excess skin, fat or muscle beneath your chin by making a small incision underneath the chin through which liposuction removes fat in this area. The muscles that cause bands in this area can also be cut or sutured together. Correction of a double chin is often performed along with a standard neck lift or cheek lift. A chin implant may also be recommended to compliment the overall basic shape and balance of the face.

After chin surgery, your chin will be swollen, firm and possibly bruised. Using cold compresses in the first 48 hours will significantly lessen the swelling, as will keeping your upper body elevated when resting. If cosmetic injectables were used as the primary treatment for your chin augmentation, the swelling and bruising may be less.

Chin surgery:

Recovery from chin surgery involves some swelling, bruising and numbness for several weeks following surgery. You'll have incisions in your mouth, increasing the risk for infection from the bacteria that normally reside there, so be especially attentive to caring for your mouth (oral hygiene) according to your surgeon's instructions. During the recovery period, you'll need to eat only soft foods and protect your face from bumps and other injuries.

All surgical procedures carry some risk.