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What is a chin augmentation?

Chin augmentation refers to the process of enhancing the shape and prominence of the chin in both men and women. Medically this is referred to as a genioplasty. There are a variety of methods that achieve this enhancement, both surgical and non-surgical.

  • Non-surgical chin augmentation can be done with dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid or fat grafts. These help to add volume to the chin, making it appear more prominent. The results from injectable fillers are immediate and can last up to two years.
  • It is also possible to use chin implants made of materials such as silicone and designed to fit over the natural shape of the chin. The implants are inserted through an incision in the upper lip or under the chin and can be custom tailored to the patient’s desired shape and size. The results from chin implants are usually permanent and can provide a more structured and defined look to the chin.

Shape and size changes offered by a chin augmentation procedure

  • Anatomic implants: These are implants that mimic the natural shape of the chin and jawline.
  • Extended anatomic implants: These are implants that not only enhance the chin but also the jawline.
  • Square implants: These implants create a more angular, masculine appearance to the chin and jawline.
  • Button implants: These are small implants that add projection to the chin.

What about custom-made chin implants?

In some cases, custom-made chin implants may be necessary to achieve the desired outcome. These implants are made specifically for the patient based on their individual needs and facial anatomy. They are created using a 3D-printing technology to ensure a precise fit and natural appearance. Custom-made implants may be necessary in cases of significant facial asymmetry or when the patient has a unique chin shape.

How do I know if I need chin surgery?

The chin is a central and defining feature of a person’s face. It can create a sense of harmony with the rest of the face, giving the appearance of a strong and well-defined jawline. There are many reasons that may require surgical enhancement. As we age, the bones in our face, jaw, and body lose their strength and density, leading to what some may refer to as a “weak chin”. The chin subsequently gets smaller and less prominent with age. The chin may also recede into the neck as the soft tissue of the neck and face begin to droop with aging. Some patients may be born with smaller chins that are less prominent and may have surgery at a younger age. You may need chin or jaw surgery because of having severe sleep apnea. A small and retracted chin may be contributing to sleep problems leading to sleep apnea. There are additional genetic conditions that can cause congenital problems related to the jaw that may require treatment.

In order to identify whether you need chin surgery, the best way is to look at your facial profile. If the chin is too far back from the upper lip then you may benefit from chin surgery. There are medically defined points and measurements that relate your nose and facial features that help to establish if the chin is in proportion with the rest of the face. Sometimes the chin may be small, a term referred to as microgenia. Other times the chin may be an appropriate size but retracted backward, a term referred to as retrognathia. A specialist can take you through this process to identify your exact needs for facial balance.

Overall, Chin implants surgery are a great options for candidates with the following criteria:

  • Individuals with a weak or recessed chin
  • Patients with facial asymmetry
  • Those who wish to improve their facial profile

Chin augmentation and chin implant procedure

Chin implant surgery, or chin augmentation with implants, is one of the most common techniques used for chin augmentation. The procedure involves placing a small, biocompatible implant over the existing chin bone to create a more prominent and defined chin.

Interested in chin augmentation? Dr. Mourad is board-certified plastic surgeon specialized in head and neck surgery practicing in NYC.

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How is chin augmentation surgery performed?

Chin Implants

The most commonly performed chin augmentation surgery is the placement of chin implants. Your doctor should be able to show you a computer-imaged side profile to give you an idea of the improvement you can expect. Using presurgical 3-dimensional planning, an appropriately sized implant can be secured to the chin to provide the perfect amount of projection. Implants can be placed through a small incision in the mouth, or better through a small incision under the chin. Implants come in a variety of different types of materials. It is important to discuss with your surgeon which implant best suits your needs.

Dr. Mourad is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is specialized in chin implant in New York

Sliding Genioplasty

This type of surgery does not involve any foreign material or implants. Chin augmentation is performed through the use of cuts in the jaw bone that allow for the chin to “slide” forward. The bones are then secured using tiny plates and screws. This type of surgery is commonly performed in the treatment of sleep apnea and may improve your sleep quality and overall health. This is because the surgery allows for your tongue to move forward which will increase the amount of oxygen you receive at night.

What are other considerations when thinking about chin surgery?

The chin is only one component of the face that creates a sense of balance and harmony. It is important to take into consideration other complementary procedures that may enhance the outcome of your chin surgery.

Rhinoplasty as a complement to chin augmentation

Sometimes, a large nose may make it look like your chin is weak or small. Addressing the nose can often solve your problem. Sometimes a rhinoplasty can be done in addition to chin surgery to maximize your results.

Cheek and jaw implants as a complement to chin implants

Oftentimes patients with small chins have poor definition and flattening of their cheekbones, in addition to weak jawlines. This may be due to overall bone loss with aging, or poor bone development as a child. It is important to enhance the definition of all parts of the bony face to maximize results.

Are there non-surgical options?

Yes. Chin enhancement can be achieved through the use of injectable materials along the chin and jawline. This type of enhancement is temporary, with the effects wearing off in a few months. Although Dr. Mourad is well trained in these techniques, he does not endorse them, as he values giving his patients enduring, long-lasting results that withstand the test of time.

Does insurance cover the surgery?

Sometimes, depending on your complaint, surgery may be covered partly or completely by your insurance company. Most common reason for insurance to cover chin surgery is having co-existent sleep apnea. Chin surgery may improve sleep apnea, and reduce the adverse effects of poor nighttime sleep quality. Other reasons may include congenital (existing from birth) or traumatic events. Dr. Mourad and his team of specialists work closely with insurance companies to ensure that all resources are made available to you.

Meet Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS

Moustafa Mourad, MD, FACS is board-certified in head and neck surgery and highly-trained in cosmetic plastic surgery and facial reconstruction. Dr. Mourad is also a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He treats many conditions, both cosmetic and complex, that affect the head, neck... Learn More »

The Results


Learn more about Dr. Mourad’s chin augmentation procedures in NYC

What are different types of chin implants?

Silicone chin implant

This is a common material used for chin implants. It is a soft and flexible material that can be molded to fit the patient's chin. Silicone implants are very popular among people who want this kind of plastic surgery.

Porous polyethylene chin implant:

This is a type of material that is highly biocompatible and can integrate well with the surrounding tissue. It is also highly customizable and can be trimmed or shaped to fit the patient's chin.

Medpor chin implant

This is another porous material that is often used for chin implants. It is a type of high-density polyethylene that is highly durable and can maintain its shape over time.

Gore-tex chin implant

This is a synthetic material that is highly biocompatible and can be easily shaped to fit the patient's chin. It is also highly resistant to infection and other complications.

What is the recovery like after receiving chin augmentation surgery?

Post-operative discomfort and swelling

After a chin implant surgery, patients may experience some post-operative discomfort and moderate swelling. The degree of discomfort and swelling varies from patient to patient, but it is generally mild to moderate and can be managed with pain medication and cold compresses. The discomfort and swelling typically peak within the first 48-72 hours after surgery and then gradually subsides over the next days after surgery. It is important to follow the surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to minimize discomfort and promote healing.

Proper wound care

Proper wound care is important after a chin implant surgery to minimize the risk of infection and promote healing. The surgeon will provide detailed aftercare instructions on how to care for the wound and what to expect during the recovery period.

Resuming normal activities

For a chin implant alone there may be virtually no recovery period with mild bruising and tenderness. Others with more extensive procedures may be restricted to a soft diet for 1-2 weeks after surgery. This is to ensure that the implant and new chin position does not migrate or move to a less than desirable position. For those patients that receive the sliding chin surgery, they are required to wear a “jaw cradle” for one week after surgery at all times, while also being on a soft diet; followed by wearing the “jaw cradle” only while sleeping at night for the following week.

For the best chin augmentation results, patients must take is slow

Patients are advised to not perform any strenuous activity regardless of the surgery for at least 3-4 weeks. Patients are also advised to sleep on their backs to prevent any inadvertent pressure or contact with the chin while sleeping.

What is the cost of a chin augmentation in NYC?

Chin augmentation cost in NYC can vary depending on several factors, such as the surgeon's experience, the type of implant used, and the extent of the procedure. On average, the cost for chin augmentation in NYC ranges from $5,000 to $17,000 depending on the type of material chosen, additional adjunct procedures, and case complexity (i.e. revision surgery).

Book your first appointment with Dr.Mourad for an initial consultation with a known surgeon for facial surgery!