Am I a candidate for a chin implant? (photos)

Question

Does my deep mentolabial fold prevent me from being a chin implant candidate or being able to obtain a good/natural looking result from a chin implant? I'm looking to increase the width, horizontal length, and vertical length of my chin if possible. Thank you for your responses.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Without an exam your question cannot be answered.  You will need to see an Oral/Maxillofacial surgeon to see if othognathic surgery, genioplasty or using an implant is best for your specific case. It should be noted that patients with severely weak jaws or abnormally functioning jaws may be better treated with other facial surgery (orthognathic surgery), although a chin augmentation may be an option at a later time. These patients should seek the advice of a plastic surgeon to determine which course is right for them. Here is some information to help you make this decision: Candidates for Chin Augmentation - Patients whose chin profiles are weak but have normally functioning jaws are candidates for Chin Augmentation. Many of these candidates have used injectable fillers in the past to strengthen the protrusion of their chins, but are looking for a permanent solution. If you are one of these patients, then you are a likely candidate for chin augmentation

Joshua Lampert, MD, FACS · Answer

Although Xrays in general may be helpful when determining the correct treatment plan regarding aesthetic surgery of the jaw - patient history, physical, and good clinical photography are all necessary prior to any surgical plan - if you desire successful and consistent outcomes.  Clinical photography of the face, head and neck with frontal views, profile views, and 1/8 turn obliques can be helpful - but are no substitute for a full clinical exam by an ABPS board certified plastic surgeon.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

While most forms of chin augmentation will potentially deepen the labiomental groove, adding a vertical component to the chin augmentation will add some 'protection' from it. Vertical lengthening of the chin can be done by a vertical lengthening chin implant or a sliding genioplasty, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Chin implants are not designed to help with a deep mental labial fold. Chin implants are composed of Silastic, are placed on the front part of the bony mandible to give added projection to that portion of the chin. Chin implants are manufactured in a variety of sizes, are composed of Silastic, and can be custom carved according to patient's unique anatomy when needed. For many examples and more information, please see the video and the link below

Anthony Bared, MD, FACS · Answer

Candidacy for a chin implant is best made with a physical examination and photos.  Without photos it is difficult to address your concern.  Chin implants today come in many shapes and sizes.  And can be placed under local anesthesia in most cases.  It is best to seek an in person consultation for your candidacy.

Francis R. Palmer, III, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi, I have performed many chin augmentations with chin implants over the past 30 years and while these are far less invasive than a sliding genioplasty, they will not add vertical length to the chin area.  It's a function of how the chin implant is shaped, curved/hollow backing and where it has to be placed on the bone in the chin area.  The mental groove should be around 5mm's deep and even more so not certain how deep your is currentlay and how it would be affected by placement of the chin implant.  Hope this helps.

Donald Nunn, MD (retired) · Answer

It is difficult to give complete advice without a photograph.  You lateral cephalometric radiograph reveals mild chin deficiency.  You would probably benefit from a genioplasty to address the vertical length of the chin as well as advancement.  Augmentation with freeze dried bone could be placed a the time of the genioplasty to  soften the mentolabial fold.  This would be done through an intraoral incision.  Find a board certified surgeon who does frequent chin surgery for the best result.  Good luck.  Donald R. Nunn MD,DDS  Atlanta Plastic Surgeon

Am I a candidate for a chin implant? (photos)

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