Chin implant came out of pocket - is there any way to fix this?

Question

I had chin implant surgery in 2011. One end of the implant came out if the pocket. I paid the surgeon for a revision in 2012 to correct the implant. Instead of trying to put the end back into the pocket (or new pocket) he trimmed the end. One side of my chin looks great but the other side appears to make my chin look uneven. You can see the end of implant and I can also feel it. Absolutely hate it. Seems like since I’ve aged it only looks worse. Is there anyway to fix this?

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

Migration of the implant is the second most common problem for chin implants. A CT of the chin would help determine what treatment is best. Sometimes the implant can be repositioned, other times it should be replaced. A custom implant is another option. I prefer to secure the implant with tiny screws to ensure that it doesn't migrate.

Timothy Osborn, MD · Answer

It sounds like you are a good candidate for a genioplasty. This is a permanent procedure that allows us to pretty much put your chin in whatever position you like. You will most likely have chin ptosis after an implant removal, but a genioplasty would resolve that. It is a fairly common practice to remove chin implants and replace them with a genioplasty because you will end up with a better outcome. I suggest doing some research before having an implant revision.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Elizabethshelby,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It's difficult to say without the benefit of a formal evaluation. See an expert who does facial shaping with surgical and non surgical methods to get a comprehensive option. Best, Dr. Emer.

Alejo Villarreal, DDS · Answer

Hi Elizabeth,
Unfortunately, your situation is common, and as you know, Off-the-shelf implants present numerous problems. 
An implant that is not exclusively made for you has a larger chance of complications. Before you try to mend a problem with another subpar implant, consider a custom implant instead. You have gone through a lot, and likely, you don't want to experiment with inadequate solutions.
I hope you get a chance to learn more about custom implants vs. generic ones so you can feel confident making decisions regarding your looks and health. 
Good luck

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

Removal and replacement with a new chin implant would be the appropriate approach. To reposition a chin implant it always has to be removed, a new pocket made and the implant re-inserted into a better position. Trimming off the end of a chin implant for an asymmetric positioning is not an effective technique.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Implants do not fall out of their pocket. Most likely what happened was the pocket was made in the wrong place or there were two pockets created and the implant found its way into the major one.

Once healed up implants do not move.

Your surgeon is responsible for the outcome of your procedure and you intern are responsible for choosing that surgeon.

If this bothers you then follow up with your surgeon again or consider getting a proper second opinion consultation.

To correct this would most likely require revising the procedure and putting in a new implant that has not been cut.

It can be difficult to keep implants from wanting to go back to the primary pocket and creating the pocket correctly is the most important part of the procedure.

Some plastic surgeons put titanium screws and implants to hold them in place. This can also sometimes be done with sutures.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

Chin implant came out of pocket - is there any way to fix this?

Answers (7)

More Chin Implant Questions

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (7)

More Chin Implant Questions

Chin Implant Removal: How long does scar tissue capsule take to resorb?

Does bone overgrowth on an implant pose a risk in the case of an infection?

Would I be more suitable for a genioplasty or a chin implant for a more defined mandible? (photos)

Considering revision for smaller chin implant - advice? (photos)

Is this result possible with a chin implant+ chin/neck liposuction for more defined jawline? (Photo)

Enlarged chin after Chin Implant removal - how can I make my chin smaller? (photos)

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS