Chin Implants
As the facial skeleton grows, some people develop a receded or "weak" chin. If bite correction is not required but the chin is recessive, its prominence can be increased with an implant. These implants are made of plastic or similar material and are inserted through an incision in the mouth or through a small incision under the chin. The implant rests on the front surface of the lower jaw and gives a permanent result. Another procedure to reposition the lower jaw, called sliding genioplasty, may sometimes be indicated. These procedures are often combined with rhinoplasty. Chin implants often are combined with cosmetic rhinoplasty to improve facial balance.
After surgery, the chin will be swollen, and the lower jaw may look bruised. You will be on a liquid or soft diet for the first few days. There are no restrictions on showering or bathing. Most swelling will subside by ten to fourteen days after surgery. You may resume exercise at that point. Some patients have postoperative numbness which usually lasts only three to four weeks. The chin may not feel completely normal, however, for four to six weeks.
