Planning on getting a chin implant, but not sure what size to choose. Thought on implant size? (Photos)

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

Thanks for your question; There is not a significant difference in the actual dimensions of chin implants from one size to the next. For example, going from a small size to a medium size the there is only a .5mm change in actual chin projection. Your surgeon should have multiple sizes availalble at the time of surgery and use the "sizers" provided by the company to determine which size is most appropriate. These are placed and can be evaluated and changed as needed until the most appropriate size is selected. Once the size is selcted, the permanent implant can be placed. Having a discussion with the surgeon and allowing him some leeway to make the final decision at the time of surgery is best. Remember, in the case that you are not satisfied, the implant can easlily be removed and replaced with another side. Good luck!   

Thanks for sharing and nice photographs which helps the experts here make better opinions.  I print out the pre-op photos and go over with the patient where she would like to see her chin. The patient and I draw on the photograph where we would like the chin similar to what you have done in photo shop. Your surgeon should have small and medium "sizers" (as well as large and XL)  He then can place them inside your chin and determine on the table what size looks best.  Once this is determined, he can then open the actual small or medium implant. The surgeon should have both sizes you are thinking about in stock. However, we usually have in mind what size we need already and almost always it is just confirmed with the sizers.   In my opinion I would lean towards the medium but an in-person exam would be needed to confirm. 

Hello Happygirl20161367 - Thanks for your question. Chin implant surgery is typically an easy and well-tolerated procedure. It can be performed in the office using local anesthesia. In general the soft tissue effect of an implant in terms of the increase in forward projection is 1/2 of the thickness of the implant. Discuss the amount of projection you might need with your surgeon and find the implant that matches that need. A small implant is the safest option, but if you want a noticeable result, I would go with the medium implant, especially if you are tall. Communicate your desires clearly with the surgeon of your choice to make sure you end up with what you want. Good luck, Dr. Shah

Hello, thank you for providing your picture and "vision" of what you would like to have your chin look like. I too use photo imaging as a way to translate my patients potential outcome as it relates to the size of the implant. You have a realistic goal. You sought out two consultations - that is great! This is a reliable procedure and perhaps there many be other factors that cause you some concern. In terms of implant size, there is not too much difference between a small and medium implant. Perhaps it may be a good idea to go back to your two previous doctors to see if you feel comfortable after a second consult. I don't know their office policy but I allow my patients to come in as many times as needed without additional costs so that they feel good about their anticipated outcome. Pre-operative patient - doctor communication is a big key to post operative happiness!