Non-Surgical vs. Surgical Chin Augmentation

As the name suggests, chin augmentation is a cosmetic procedure that will reshape, reposition, and refine the chin, producing a more natural and attractive overall facial profile. Chin augmentation can be surgical (which usually requires an implant insertion) or non-surgical (which generally uses dermal fillers). Both of these methods have their pros and cons which should be considered before making a final decision. This article will help you gain some insights into what each of these methods involve.

We will first take a look at non-surgical procedure.

Who is an ideal candidate?

Non-surgical chin augmentation is ideal for patients who don’t yet feel ready for a permanent change. Individuals with a recessed or asymmetrical chin, irregular jawline, or small jaw are good candidates for non-surgical chin augmentation. Moreover, anyone who is looking to just try out and see how their altered chin will look without having a permanent implant should also go with non-surgical procedures because they will eventually lose their effects. If you like the effect, the non-surgical procedure can be repeated or you may choose to move on to a more permanent surgical change. For various reasons, the doctors at Profiles Beverly Hills do not recommend use of so-called permanent fillers in the face- this can be discussed in more detail at your consultation.

What to expect during the procedure?

Your surgeon will apply topical anesthesia to numb the surrounding area of the chin. This means you will be able to see the surgeon perform the augmentation as it happens. Using a fine needle, your surgeon will carefully inject dermal fillers and rub the area to evenly distribute the filler and produce a natural look. The procedure is fast and there is virtually no pain to the patient.

What happens after the procedure?

Non-surgical chin procedures usually do not place any restrictions on your daily activities. With that said, there might be slight swelling from the injection and a remote possibility of bruising that can last for a couple of days. You will be able to the see the results of the procedure almost immediately. One thing to note about the difference between non-surgical and surgical chin augmentation is that dermal fillers can give you volume, making your chin look bigger or more projected, but they are less effective at providing real definition in the same way that can be achieved with a chin implant.

Now, let’s focus on surgical chin augmentation.

Who is an ideal candidate?

Best patients for surgical operations are those who require an implant to achieve the desired look. People with a round face who lack a defined and prominent jaw as well as those who wish to have better lower facial structure and symmetry will benefit from surgical implants. In addition, since implants do not fade away as fillers do, anyone looking for a permanent solution to their small chin should choose surgical augmentation.

What to expect during the procedure?

IV sedation or general anesthesia is usually recommended for the surgery. Drs. Solieman and Litner will make a small incision inside your mouth or below the chin (depending on which one is best for your case). Then, an implant will be inserted into the pocket created and secured properly. Finally, incisions will be closed with the help of stitches. Generally, this operation takes approximately an hour to complete.

What happens after the procedure?

Patients heal relatively quickly after surgical chin augmentation. There will be some swelling lasting for a few days up to a week that will generally resolve completely over the next few weeks.

As you may know by now, two major differences between surgical and non-surgical chin augmentations are: 1) surgical procedures are permanent unlike the non-surgical ones while 2) non-surgical procedures are quicker and require less recovery time.

Whether you are an ideal candidate for surgical or non-surgical chin augmentation, it is essential that you make this decision with your surgeon. Drs. Litner and Solieman at Beverly Hills Profiles will be happy to discuss your needs with you. Feel free to schedule a consultation using the contact page.