Chin Augmentation

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Riverton UT Chin Augmentation with Dr. Derrick Gale, ENT

Chin augmentation, also known as chin enhancement or genioplasty, redefines the contours of the chin, neck, and jawline. For both men and women, a well-defined chin and jawline are the foundation of a balanced, attractive facial structure.

woman portrait smiling on the beach

The chin acts as a frame for the rest of our face. Strong, squared jaws in men display strength, fitness, and confidence. While generally not as defined as a man’s jawline, a woman who sports a balanced and clear chin emits self-assuredness and an attractive appearance.

The chin’s role in harmonizing with the nose and forehead for both sexes is also critical in forming aesthetically-pleasing facial proportions. By using a chin implant, a skilled plastic surgeon can add definition to a weak or sunken chin, and enhance overall facial balance.

Highly trained and experienced in reconstructive and cosmetic surgery, Dr. Derrick Gale applies functional understanding and aesthetic artistry to his procedures. His specialized training in jaw reconstruction makes him the ideal surgeon to perform your chin augmentation. 

This page gives a thorough background on chin augmentation in Riverton and Salt Lake City. If you have any specific questions or would like to consult Dr. Gale, please don’t hesitate to call 801-506-6311 or visit us online. 

Meet Dr. Derrick Gale, MD

Customized Consultations, Individualized Results

With a focus on improving both form and function, Dr. Gale applies experienced aesthetic judgment and surgical expertise to achieve each patient’s individual cosmetic and functional goals. While delivering the highest level of care and expertise, Dr. Gale and his team maintain a down-to-earth and comfortable atmosphere to put you at ease. 

What is a Chin Augmentation?

Chin augmentation is a surgical procedure that enhances the projection and height of the chin. This is typically achieved using an implant. However, it can also be done by manipulating the jawbones. 

What are the Benefits of a Chin Augmentation?

The chin plays a defining role in facial balance. When the face is viewed in profile, the jaw harmonizes with the nose and forehead. A small chin can make a nose look comparatively large, just as a broad chin can make a nose look smaller.

By enhancing the lift of one’s chin, a chin augmentation creates synergy between the features.

What Does a Chin Augmentation Procedure Include?

Your chin augmentation begins with a consultation with Dr. Gale. During this time, you will discuss your desired results and reasoning for the procedure. This ensures you both have a clear understanding of the requirements and realistic expectations for the outcome. You will then set a date for the operation. 

Leading up to your chin augmentation, you should eat a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and organize your schedule for a smooth, uneventful recovery. 

On the day of the procedure, you will need someone to drive you. After a final chat to make sure everything is ready, you will receive anesthesia (either a local numbing agent or light sedation) in preparation for the procedure.

Depending on your anatomy and the shape of the implant that you’ve chosen, Dr. Gale will insert your implant through an incision made either inside the mouth or under the chin. Both techniques are very effective at hiding a scar, but under the chin gives Dr. Gale uninhibited visualization of the area, and it is also less painful. Most patients choose an under-the-chin procedure. 

Once your implant is in place and tissue around it has been addressed, Dr. Gale will then close the incision with sutures. 

After you have recovered from the anesthesia, your friend or family member can drive you home. 

Most chin augmentation patients resume daily activities within seven days of their procedure, with minimal discomfort that can be minimized by using cold compresses and pain medication. 

What can I Expect During Recovery from Chin Augmentation Surgery?

Dr. Gale will give you specific guidelines to follow during your recovery, and it is essential to follow these. General guidelines for patients recovering from chin augmentation include:

  • Sleep face up for a minimum of two weeks after the surgery. This protects your incisions, reduces swelling, and ensures the implant is not dislodged. 
  • For forty-eight hours after surgery, a liquid-only diet is recommended. This includes water, juices, shakes, and soups. 
  • You can expect to resume physical activity and exercise three to four weeks after the surgery, giving the incisions ample time to heal.      

Am I a Suitable Candidate for Chin Augmentation?

Healthy individuals with realistic expectations for the outcomes of chin enhancement are generally good candidates for the procedure. Medical conditions that impair healing should be discussed with Dr. Gale, as should any other medical history.

Is There an Alternative to Chin Augmentation?

Yes. A procedure known as ‘sliding genioplasty’ can be performed by uniquely trained surgeons, of whom Dr. Gale is one. Sliding genioplasty involves the cutting of the jawbone to extend it forward, increasing the projection and profile of the chin without an implant.  

Chin Augmentation FAQs

By enhancing the projection of the chin, the angle between the jawline and neck is increased, resulting in a more lean and youthful neck. A chin augmentation can also stretch the skin of the neck, reducing neck wrinkles. 

For many patients, chin enhancement is complimented by liposuction on the neck, or a facelift or neck lift. These procedures work together to create a wholly defined neck and jawline. 

In some cases, patients also request rhinoplasty to bring their face and jawline into complete harmony with one another. Consult with Dr. Gale as to which procedures will best achieve your desired aesthetics.   

Malposition of the implant is one of the most common problems associated with chin augmentation. However, choosing a trained and experienced surgeon minimizes this risk.

It is essential to avoid applying pressure to the chin in the weeks to months following surgery to ensure it settles and heals where it was initially placed. Malposition of the implant requires surgical revision.

Made from solid silicone, chin implants last indefinitely. As long as the implant remains in place, you will enjoy your new facial structure permanently.

Chin implants come in an array of different shapes and sizes to provide different aesthetics. Some wrap widely along the jaw, and some protruded only slightly at the front. The shape of your implant depends on your desired aesthetic and Dr. Gale will discuss this with you thoroughly during your consultation.  

Chin Augmentation in Riverton UT and Salt Lake City, UT

The chin is a defining characteristic of the face. A strong, defined jawline presents a powerful, capable individual to the world.

Dr. Derrick Gale of the Ear Nose and Throat Center of Utah fully understands the complexities involved with achieving the optimum aesthetic and functionality from chin augmentation. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact him at 801-506-6344 or contact us online.

We look forward to hearing from you.