Question:
How is chin augmentation performed?

Answer:
Most patients benefit from a simple augmentation utilizing an artificial implant placed on the front of the chin. In some complex cases making cuts in the bone and securing the segments in a new position with plates can advance the chin forward.

Question:
I have what I think is called a “weak” chin. It doesn’t seem to jut out as far as it should. If I had chin augmentation, would it basically just alter my profile, or does it also change my appearance when looking directly at the front of my face?

Answer:
Chin augmentation, known as mentoplasty, is a powerful tool to balance the profile. It is often combined with other procedures such as liposuction, facelift, and rhinoplasty. The appearance is most obvious on the side view, but the positive effects are seen from the front and ¾ views also.

Question:
While reading about chin augmentation, I learned that a possible side effect is nerve damage. What does this mean, and how would this affect a person?

Answer:
On each side of the jawbone near the front a nerve exits the bone to provide feeling to the chin area. This nerve should be avoided during surgery to prevent any permanent numbness in the area. There is usually plenty of room below the nerve for the implant placement. It is not unusual to have some temporary numbness due to stretching the tissue around the nerve during implant placement. This resolves within a few weeks.