Chin Implant Removal - what is the proper procedure to avoid ptosis?

Question

I had a silicone chin implant placed 37 years ago. It became infected a month ago (unknown trigger). I was treated with a zpack. It appears the infection is gone, but I am concerned it will return, and I will need to have the implant removed. My question: I have read in some places on the internet that to avoid the development of chin ptosis, there must be some things done beyond simple removal. What is the proper procedure? I would like to avoid a Witch's chin. Anyone experienced in this?

Bianca Knoll, MD · Answer

thank you for your question. Depending on the projection of the chin implant and your  mandible you might be more prone to develope chin ptosis, i.e " witches chin". This is also true if the original surgery was done through the mouth. It depends on how the original surgery released the muscles in that area. Usually chin ptosis is corrected very efficently through an incision behind the submental crease.  If this was your incision the chin implant was placed to begin with, great, your implant can be removed and a chin ptosis correction can be performed at the same time, if needed. Otherwise it is advised to add the external approach. I hope the information helps you.

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

It is unusual to develop an infection 37 years after the placement of a chin implant but it does happen. The antibiotics help but the infection may reoccur. The tissue has expanded over time so removal of the implant may cause ptosis. It is possible that removal doesn't cause ptosis, but a large chin implant is higher risks for this problem. If you are happy with the aesthetics, then I suggest having the implant removed and a simultaneous sliding genioplasty. This will prevent chin ptosis and keep the aesthetics the same.

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

Conceivable that your antibiotic has eliminated the infection from your chin, and it may not return. I completely understand your concern, since infected chin implants or other rubberized silicone chin implants may retain indolent infection and require removal. The good news is that removing a chin implant is relatively straightforward and would be curative for the infectious condition. I do not believe that there would be any procedure other than implant removal in the setting of an acute infection and abscess. It's the chin implant needs to be removed for infection, once that's resolved, it's fairly straightforward to put one back in for hopefully another 37 good years! Wishing you well moving forward. Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is very likely that you may develop chin ptosis after chin implant removal. There are some techniques of chin lift/suspension that can be used to prevent ptosis. You should try to find a surgeon who is familiar with this procedure. Good luck.

Chin Implant Removal - what is the proper procedure to avoid ptosis?

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