Do chin implants have to follow the angle of the mandible? (Photo)

Question

My goal for my chin implant was for the bottom of my lip and chin to be in alignment with each other (for the implant to ONLY provide lateral projection). After surgery the doctor said he used a Large anatomical implant and could not use the XL because it elongated my head too much. My question: Even though my mandible angles downward.. does the implant have to follow that angle in order to look natural? My doctor claims a standard implant can't be placed on the front of the mandible.

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and sharing your photographs.

Chin implants, including porous polyethylene implants can be used to produce just a horizontal enhancement for the jawline and therefore the change the direction of the jawline at the chin point.

As they are manufactured, the large anatomically implants are designed to hug the contours of the mandible to help with stabilisation. As designed, they would not be helpful in a situation like yours. It is possible to shave down the lower part of the implant which curves around the mandible border and indeed to contour the implant to allow it to sit slightly higher on the chin and limit the degree of projection to a horizontal change.

This is specifically important for people that have good vertical dimensions and perhaps a slim contour of the face and do not want to increase the facial length.

The link contains an example of 9 mm implant used for horizontal augmentation only to produce an effect similar to what you are describing.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

The placement and size of a chin implant can indeed impact the overall balance and appearance of your face. Surgeons typically aim to achieve a natural and harmonious look, taking into account the existing facial features.

While it’s essential for the implant to look natural, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer because individual anatomy and aesthetic preferences vary. Surgeons often consider the patient’s facial structure, including the mandible angle and overall facial proportions, when determining the appropriate implant size and placement.

Your surgeon’s explanation about using a large anatomical implant and considering the elongation of your head suggests they were trying to balance your facial features for a natural look.

I hope it helps,
Best of luck !

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Quality assessment regarding the outcome of a plastic surgery procedure we need a complete set of proper before and after pictures. If you don’t have before and after pictures and ask your surgeon to forward the pictures they took.
From the information included, it it looks like the procedure was done well.Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Do chin implants have to follow the angle of the mandible? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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.

Do chin implants have to follow the angle of the mandible? (Photo)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

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.