Chin Implant: mesh vs. plastic implant, what are the pros and cons of each type?

Question

I am considering a chin enhancement. I've visited a few doctors. Some want to do the implant (that come in a certain size -small, medium, etc.). And another wants to do the "mesh" implant. I know there are pros and cons to everything and everyone has their preference, but what are the pros and cons of each way?

Scott Trimas, MD · Answer

There are two ways to place a chin implant, through the mouth or via a small incision under the chin. The advantage of going under the chin is more direct placement and less likely to damage the sensory nerves or move. The advantage of the intraoral or mouth approach is that there is no scar but placement is harder. The types of implants are preformed usually medical grade plastic or Goretex covered. These are the best solid implants since they do not move and are inert. The other solid implants get integrated into the bone and are harder to remove if necessary and don't feel as natural.Finally, there are mesh types of implants. My preference is not to use them since they are extremely difficult to remove should removal be necessary or if they get infected they are hard to remove entirely. Also they are not as anatomic and are harder to conform around the jaw line. That being said several surgeons like them since they tend to blend with the tissue but are also prone to symmetry issues.Good luck with your decision but I would favor the more solid ones since they are more predictable, easy to remove and replace should the need arise and rarely get infected.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

The material that is used is far less important than the type of surgery or style and size of the implant. For example, in cases where there is a deficiency in chin height then I prefer to perform a genioplasty and lengthen the chin while simultaneously advancing the chin. It tends to produce a more natural result. In cases where horizontal projection is required, then the size and dimensions of the implant become critical. Some surgeons have individual preferences for some material over others, but the end result is what's most important.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Between many types of chin implants silicone seem to be predominantly used by surgeons preforming this type of surgery. It is much more important to find a surgeon experienced in this type of surgery than whether silicon, mesh or other implant is used. In some cases augmentation with fat grafts may work as well.Good luck.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

The most important issue is the shape and size of the chin implant and not what its material composition is. The chin augmentation result is ultimately going to come to those implant features. Thus I would be paying great attention to the dimensions of the implant to be used and which material can best provide it.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

I can tell you what I use and that is an anatomical silicone implant.  It is easy to place and I find that in the worst case scenario is relatively easy to remove.  More important than what I like is to find a plastic surgeon you trust and use what he/she uses.  Dr. Schuster in Boca Raton, Florida

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Chin Implant: mesh vs. plastic implant, what are the pros and cons of each type?

Answers (5)

Answer: Mesh vs Solid Chin Implant

Answer: Mesh vs Solid Chin Implant

Answer: Mesh v. Silicone Chin

Answer: Mesh v. Silicone Chin

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chin Implant

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.