One of the most powerful procedures that can be done to improve the overall balance and beauty of the face is chin surgery. Dr. Lampert recommends chin surgery in about 30% of his rhinoplasty patients. Combining the two surgeries brings the nose, chin and profile into a more aesthetic balance. The perception of the size of the nose is directly related to the proportions of the rest of the face. A chin surgery, either on its own or in combination with a rhinoplasty, can greatly improve harmony between the different facial features. This is especially the case when patients have an overall convexity of the facial profile. If the nose is prominent (or large) and the chin short (or “weak”) the problem concerning the patient is frequently a combination of the two.

What is Chin Surgery?

Chin surgery is done to increase the size and prominence of the chin or to reduce an overly pronounced chin. If the chin is receded or underdeveloped, the nose can appear too large. The balance being sought is to have the tip of the chin and the tip of the nose approximately in a vertical line when viewing the patient’s profile.

The nose/chin relationship is front and center in the face. Improving this ratio has a remarkable effect on the overall appearance.

A chin implant by itself can have a profound effect on bringing the face into harmony. Some patients do well with a small cut and movement of the end of the chin bone itself. Dr. Lampert will determine which technique is the best option for each patient on an individual basis upon consultation. Many patients are delighted to discover that with chin surgery alone, they have achieved the image they were striving for. They can have improved balance and beauty once facial symmetry and better proportion has been achieved.

The Procedure

There are several different methods that can be used to either increase or reduce the size of the chin. Chin implant surgery is done to increase the size and position of the chin using a silicone implant that has been customized for each individual patient.

Chin surgery, or genioplasty, is done by making a small incision either inside the mouth (where the inner lip meets the gum of the chin), or just under the chin. In either case, the incision is virtually undetectable once healed. For chin implant placement, a small pocket is created into which the custom implant is placed. The implant is then sutured to the bone to ensure that it stays in place. The incision is then closed.

Chin reduction surgery is done by sculpting the jaw bone to bring it into balance with the nose. In some cases, cutting or reshaping the bone will need to be done to improve the aesthetics or treat significant deficiencies or deformities.

Liposuction may be needed to remove fatty deposits that have accumulated under the chin. This enhances the contour of the neck and jawline and can be done at the same time as the chin surgery.

For more extensive chin surgery, general anesthesia is used. For placement of a small chin implant, local anesthesia with light sedation may be all that is necessary. Most chin surgery (genioplasty) will be done on an outpatient basis. The surgery usually will take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the procedure that is needed.

Dressings and special taping will be placed around the chin and will need to remain in place for several days. Once patients have recovered from the anesthetic and are fully awake, they are free to return home. Dr. Lampert ensures that his patients have adequate support while they are recovering, either from friends or family. For his out of town patients, accredited patient recovery care can be arranged.

Facial plastic surgery requires the utmost surgical and artistic talent

Dr. Lampert provides two exceptional abilities for his patients: his outstanding surgical skill gained from years of performing thousands of plastic surgeries, and his artistic ability as a sculptor, which gives him added insight into overall balance and harmony.

As an artist, Dr. Lampert understands the components that create the hallmarks of aesthetic beauty. As a surgeon, he has the technical skill to create this harmony. Dr. Lampert’s entire focus is only plastic and reconstructive surgery.

Who Should Consider Chin Surgery?

Patients with a weak or recessed chin will benefit greatly from increasing the size or projection of the chin. Deformities caused by injury or genetics can also be corrected through chin surgery. Anyone who is unhappy with the balance of the face, their profile or who has had an injury to the chin can arrange a consultation with Dr. Lampert. He will be happy to recommend the best way to achieve your goals and will be able to answer any questions concerning the likely outcome.

Recovering from Chin Surgery

There will be some swelling and tenderness for a few days to a week. Any discomfort is easily managed by prescribed pain medication. This is usually all that is needed to stay comfortable. Chewing will be restricted during the initial recovery period, so soft food or protein drinks are recommended.

After a week, any remaining permanent sutures will be removed during the follow-up visit. While there may be some swelling, most patients return to work soon after this surgery. Light activities can be resumed but strenuous exercise should be avoided for 6-8 weeks following surgery.

If you're looking for among the best chin surgery Miami has available, trust your face to one of Miami’s top board certified plastic surgeons. Dr. Lampert is eager to help each of his patients achieve cosmetic excellence.