Today there was news of an interesting report from the ASPS on the increasing popularity of chin implant surgery. I have done this procedure for about 15 years, always using local anesthesia. In my patients, placement of a chin implant is usually done at the same time as liposuction of the neck and jowls, but it can also be done by itself.
A few points:
1. The implant should be placed beneath a layer called the periosteum (actually between the periosteum and the underlying jaw bone). The implant will stay in position and feels very natural if it is placed at this level. A more superficially placed chin implant may “migrate” to a less than optimal location. A few months ago I removed an old chin implant that had been placed at a superficial level (20 years ago) that had done just that.
2. An improperly placed chin implant can be easily removed (see previous comment); thus it is not permanent unless you want it to be.
3. The design of the chin implant is important. I prefer an “extended” design that provides some fill in the lateral side of the chin. The smaller, traditional “button” design implant looks less natural because it can produce a “pointy chin” look.
If you are interested in learning more, call The Langdon Center for a one-on-one consultation:
203-745-0340.