Chin Implant vs. Genioplasty
With your chin making up one-third of your facial structure, it’s understandable that an ill-shaped chin may be bothersome. A chin that is small and receded or one that is large and protruded can often make your face appear unbalanced or asymmetrical, which can negatively affect your self-esteem and confidence. Luckily, even if you fall into this category, there is no reason to hide beneath layers of turtlenecks and scarves. Your ideal look and balanced face may be easier than you think. There are two possible routes to consider when repairing and reshaping your chin. The first is to augment your chin with an implant; the other is a surgical procedure called genioplasty. Fortunately, both of these procedures come with the added benefit of having no visible scarring since the scars will be hidden inside of the mouth and away from prying eyes. They are also both done on an outpatient basis and are both considered permanent. Beyond that, they are two very different procedures, and it is important to understand each to choose the right one for you.
Chin Implants
Just as it sounds, a chin implant is a synthetic implant used to enhance the size and shape of the chin, creating a well-proportioned contour. Implants are inserted directly on top of the chin bone through an incision along the gum line. Although implants can be larger, the ideal candidate for an implant is someone who needs less than a four-millimeter increase. Also, an implant will only work for those with weak and receded chins—this obviously won’t work for correcting prominent and protruding chins. Something else to keep in mind is that because a foreign substance is being added to the body, you run the risk of infection. Although infection is extremely rare, it is possible, and this will necessitate the removal of the implant.
Genioplasty
Sliding genioplasty, or chin surgery, alters and corrects the appearance of the chin and jawline by reshaping and adjusting the bone. This procedure can be done either on a small or a large chin. To increase the size and prominence of the chin (genioplasty chin augmentation), a portion of the chin bone gets relocated through an incision made in the gum line to draw the chin out. The relocation of the bone is accomplished by using wires and titanium plates to extend and enhance your chin’s placement. Unlike implants, genioplasty augmentation is ideal for those needing greater than a four-millimeter increase. Conversely, it is also possible to decrease the prominence of a protruding chin (genioplasty chin reduction). In this procedure, much like the others, an incision is made in the gum line, and a piece of the chin bone is either relocated or entirely removed, once again using wires and titanium plates. The trimming of the bone can soften the appearance of your jawline and create facial balance.
If you are self-conscious about the size or placement of your chin, don’t hesitate. Call to set up your consultation with Mr Gwanmesia today at Tel: 02074741300 or fill out our online contact form. Mr Gwanmesia is both a British- and American-trained craniofacial plastic surgeon and a member of the UK Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons.
