Benefits of Chin Aug Intraorally Vs. Extraorally?

   In our practice we have always placed  chin implants  through a small incision in the sub-mentum  known as the external approach. The implant stands a less chance of infection and extrusion and migration  when placed  through  sub-mental,  external approach.

The benefit of the intraoral approach is the lack of an external incision. The downside is that there is a slightly higher risk of infection as well as malposition of the implant. It also takes slightly longer as the exposure is not as good. The benefits of the external approach are ease of positioning, lower risk of infection and lower likelihood of the implant moving after placement. The downside is a small incision in the crease behind the chin that typically heals very nicely. There is typically swelling for several weeks but most patients can return to work/ school/ social activities by one week. I hope this information is helpful. Stephen Weber MD, FACS