Z Facial Plastic Surgery

Chin Augmentation & Implants in Miami

Introduction To Chin Augmentation & Implants

At our premiere practice in Miami, chin augmentation is a popular procedure for both men and women, as the chin plays an important role in facial aesthetics. Balancing facial proportions can make a big difference in overall appearance while maintaining a natural look. A small chin often makes the face appear shorter and the upper facial features to be more predominant. Our goal with chin augmentation is to find the perfect balance, improving the aesthetic harmony of the face as a whole.

Below, we’ve included information about surgical options, nonsurgical treatments, frequently asked questions, and other information regarding chin augmentation. Our practice is situated in a perfect location to see both Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and other South Florida patients interested in chin augmentation or chin implants. If you’d like to book a consultation or have any questions, please contact us.

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on balcony | chin Augmentation | Dr. Z Facial Plastic Surgery

What is a Chin Augmentation?

Chin augmentation is a procedure that increases and/or changes the shape of the chin. This can be performed through both surgical and non-surgical methods depending on the patient’s needs and preferences. Whichever method is used, the goal is to balance facial features by augmenting the length or forward projection of the chin, as well as enhancing its shape.

Who are the Best Candidates for a Chin Augmentation?

Most patients that present for chin augmentation are aware of and bothered by a lower face disproportion. They often feel that their chin is lacking in either vertical height, projection (forward length), or shape. Others may not be aware of the chin size as an issue, but desire an overall improvement in their facial aesthetics.

Chin augmentation is best for patients whose jaw sits appropriately, meaning their upper and lower teeth meet in what is considered an adequate occlusion. Otherwise, we recommend orthodontic evaluation before considering chin augmentation.

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Chin Augmentation Options

There are three main options for chin augmentation: chin implant surgery, bone modifying surgery, or filler. Below, are brief descriptions of each.

  • Chin Implants Surgery – Chin implant surgery can be performed under general or local anesthesia and takes about an hour to complete. During this procedure, Dr. Z will place a safe, leak-proof silicone implant through a small incision underneath the chin. See below for more specific details.
  • Bone Modifying Surgery – This is called genioplasty or geniotomy. It is typically performed by Oromaxillofacial (OMFS) surgeons and requires cutting the central segment of bone, then placing it in a more favorable position using plates and screws. Dr. Z does not perform this surgery but does advise this over other methods to patients with bite issues (that require additional jaw surgery) and to those that want a chin reduction.
  • Filler Chin Augmentation – Chin filler augmentation is a non-surgical option that uses filler to enhance the size and shape of the chin. The procedure takes a few minutes and yields instant results. Dr. Z prefers to use Radiesse as this is the firmest filler on the market, mimics actual bone, and lasts for an extended period of time. Results generally last 1 – 2 years. For many patients, this is a stepping stone to see how their chin would look, before progressing to surgery. For others, it’s a very quick and simple solution that they maintain every 1 – 2 years. The results do build on themselves with subsequent treatments as collagen forms in the area, requiring less filler and less frequent injections in most cases.

Understanding the Male Chin

The male chin plays an important role in how the jawline is perceived. A strong jawline and lower half of the face are considered more masculine features, so ensuring you have a proportionate chin is crucial. Some men will even grow a beard to accomplish this appearance. In males, we usually opt for implants and shapes that are slightly more boxy or squared off, rather than the taper seen in female chins. This can however vary, depending on overall facial shape and the patient’s goals.

Understanding the Female Chin

For the female face, the chin plays a pivotal role in balancing its shape, nose length, and lip size. A shorter chin can make the face appear rounder or boxier, and the nose appears longer. It can also create an imbalance in the lower half of the face for those with larger lips. By elongating the chin, you can balance these features to create a soft tapered, feminine appearance.

How is Chin Implant Surgery Performed?

Chin augmentation can be performed under general anesthesia, or awake with local anesthesia. Patients lay on their backs with their heads slightly tilted back, similar to a dental procedure. A small incision is made just underneath the chin inside the pre-existing crease. Those with very deficient chin projection might not have much of a crease, and it is important to plan this incision correctly so that it falls into the correct location once the implant is placed. A pocket is then created right on top of the chin/jaw bone, underneath the muscle layer. The size, shape, and orientation of this pocket are very important as they will hold the implant in the proper position. The surgeon then chooses the best size and shape implant for that particular patient and inserts it into the pocket, where it should fit very snuggly. Once it is confirmed that the implant is sitting properly and providing the desired aesthetic outcome, we close the incision in layers. Some surgeons like to put a miniature screw to fixate the implant. Dr. Z does not favor screws, instead, he makes the pocket very small and precise, then uses a long-acting dissolvable suture to make sure the implant does not move.

It is also possible to perform this procedure through the mouth by making an incision inside the bottom lip. This is not Dr. Z’s preferred method due to concerns for infection/contamination from oral bacteria and the disruption of the mentalis muscle.

What is the Recovery After Chin Augmentation with a Chin Implant?

The bulk of the recovery is one week. Immediately after surgery, the chin area has surgical tape called steri-strips, which help with swelling. A soft face garment is also often placed to help with more compression of the area. Swelling begins immediately after surgery and increases during the first 2 – 3 days. There is a moderate amount of discomfort and pressure-type pain, which is worsened by moving the mouth (speaking, chewing). Patients typically report using the prescribed pain medication for only the first 2-3 days, then switching over to regular Tylenol. Cold compresses are very helpful for both pain and swelling during the first 2 days. We advise that patients stick to eating softer foods that do not require a significant amount of chewing. After one week patients return to the office to remove the surgical tape and sutures underneath the chin. At this point, there is still some swelling but it is significantly reduced and the pain is now more of a soreness. Patients are generally what we deem “socially acceptable” for one week, meaning they can go out in public without worrying that they will stick out or look odd to those walking by them.

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Woman in bra | chin Augmentation | Dr. Z Facial Plastic Surgery

Why choose Dr. Z?

Dr. Z is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with thousands of tailored treatments under his belt. Not only is he an expert in the anatomy of the face, but he also understands the latest facial aesthetic trends. Dr. Z believes that education is a lifelong process and prides himself on his dedication to staying at the top of the field.

How Much Does Chin Augmentation Cost in Miami?

The cost of chin augmentation in Miami can vary on a number of factors, such as type of anesthesia and level of expertise. Augmentation with filler will depend on the number of syringes needed to achieve the desired goal, which is usually 1-2 syringes for the chin area. Prices will also typically change with time, increasing as most things typically do in the economy. This is one of the reasons we do not post prices online, however, we will be happy to give a price estimate to those that call to inquire.

Our prices are not the lowest, however, we maintain them at a fair value for the level of expertise and care that is provided by our practice. During your consultation with Dr. Z, he’ll be able to provide his recommendations and a tailored cost estimate will be provided.

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Schedule Your Consultation

If you’d like to schedule a consultation for chin augmentation—either fillers or implants—with Dr. Z in our Miami-based office please contact us today. Our practice is perfectly located to see patients in the Miami Metropolitan area, including but not limited to Fort Lauderdale, Miami Beach, and Hollywood. We look forward to meeting you!

Chin Augmentation FAQs