Cosmetic Surgery: Chin Implants

Overview
For those who do not feel that their chin balances out their face, chin implants are ideal to use in order to restore a sense of proportion. Chin implants are also suggested when accidents or injuries cause tissue or bone damage to chin structure. Also known as mentoplasty, the chin implant is used to cosmetically fix a recessed or protruding chin so that patients are happier with their facial proportions and profile. In some cases, patients use the chin implant procedure in conjunction with a rhinoplasty, or nose surgery.

As with any facial reconstructive surgery, chin implants can drastically alter a patient's appearance, so it is important to choose the proper type of implant that fits with the rest of a person's facial features.

Chin Implant Procedure
Before the actual procedure, the surgeon might encourage the patient to take an antibiotic to ward off any chances of infection following surgery. The entire procedure typically takes about 3 to 4 hours, and is usually considered an outpatient procedure unless additional work needs to be done, prompting an inpatient status. A chin implant procedure is usually done with a general anesthesia; however, there have been some done under a local anesthesia as well.

A small incision is made either inside the mouth at the chin location, or under the chin itself and a silicone chin implant is then inserted into the incision. Once the implant is in the correct place and the surgeon makes necessary adjustments to correct the profile, the incision is closed up with small sutures. The chin is taped so that the implant stays in place during the healing process. Self dissolving sutures are generally used both for incisions outside or inside of the mouth. Other types of sutures, which will depend on need, location and technique, usually remain in place for seven to ten days and then are removed by the surgeon. Minimal scars gradually disappear. Many patients opt to have the chin implant inserted within the mouth to reduce the appearance of any temporary scarring.

In the following days of recovery, the patient's face might swell, and patients often experiences some discomfort while talking or eating. Bruising might also occur, but these side effects usually disappear within about a week. Some surgeons might also recommend the patient to be on a liquid diet for about ten days while swelling and bruising subside.

Benefits of Chin Implant Surgery
Chin implants are ideal for those who have a recessed chin, or feel that their facial features are not proportional. The profile can be evened out with a chin implant, and in comparison with other facial cosmetic procedures, the chin implant is quick and virtually leaves no scarring if done through the mouth. Self esteem and self-confidence are often experienced by patients who have undergone a chin implant, which provides untold benefits to recipients.

Cost of Chin Implant Surgery
Elective cosmetic or plastic surgery procedures are not covered by most health or medical insurance plans in the United States. In the United States, typical costs for the chin implant are about $3,000, while in Argentina costs are approximately $2,700. Plastic surgeons and facilities in Hungary perform chin implant procedures for approximately $1,400-$1,700. Some of these costs include the surgeon's fee, anesthesia and medical attention or monitoring after the procedure. Destinations in South America, such as Brazil and Argentina also offer savings of between 30% and 50% on chin implant procedures compared to those quoted in the U.S.

Choosing a Cosmetic or Plastic Surgeon
It is important to find a cosmetic surgeon that specializes in facial reconstruction, particularly mentoplasty. He or she must be trained, certified and accredited  in proper facial surgery techniques. Surgeons must also discuss any risks, costs and explain the entire procedure including technique and anesthesia used during the surgery during consultations before a patient agrees to undergo any plastic surgery procedure. Patients are encouraged to ask to see before and after pictures, so that he or she might get an idea of their work and quality of facilities, staffing and pre and post-surgery care.