Chin Surgery

To insert a chin implant, a small incision is made just under your chin. The implant is slipped into place and the skin incision closed. The surgery lasts about thirty minutes and may be performed under local anesthesia. You will be able to go home in a few hours. This operation can be combined easily with the removal of fat. This procedure, called a submental lipectomy, can eliminate a "turkey wattle" or a double chin.

Cheek Surgery

Implants are inserted with no external incisions. A small incision is made just above the gumline of the upper teeth, and the implant is slipped into a small pocket over the cheekbone.

Other options

Implants are not the only way to improve weak chins and cheeks. If your whole upper or lower jaw is too small or your teeth do not quite come together properly, more extensive surgery called "mandibular" or "maxillary advancement" is sometimes recommended. We will let you know if you would be better served with one of these bigger operations, discuss their relative benefits and shortcomings, and, when appropriate, refer you to a reputable colleague in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery for surgical planning. However, as implant surgery is so easy and safe, most people prefer it to the more extensive "advancement" surgery.

Whatever your chin or cheek problem, the proper cosmetic procedure can provide a lifelong improvement in your facial harmony.

Continue on to:  Chin and Cheeks Photo Examples