Will a Small Chin Implant Be Very Noticeable? (photo)

Question

I'm getting a rhinoplasty, which I'm thinking people I know will indeed notice... but, they know I'm getting 'deviated septum surgery' which I can use to explain why my nose looks different. But, people I know may indeed judge me for getting something done to my chin. I'm thinking my chin is somewhat weak, so I'm considering getting a size 2 implant put in. Since a size 2 is pretty small, might no one notice?... Especially if I grow a beard with it? Do I even need an implant?

Jonathan Kulbersh, MD · Answer

Getting a chin implant while simultaneously having rhinoplasty will probably distract from the augmentation. In general, any cosmetic surgery should only make you look better, rather than “done.” I hope this helps.

Thomas A. Lamperti, MD · Answer

From your profile photo a conservative chin augmentation would help balance you overall facial features. It would also allow your surgeon to maintain a stronger, more natural nasal profile. I suspect that combined with your nasal surgery people probably won't notice your chin.

Christian A. Prada, MD, FACS · Answer

Obviously without examining you I can only give you a limited opinion. In my experience I have never placed a small chin implant in a male. If you were my patient I would place a medium and large sizer in first and have you evaluate it on the table. Most of my chin implants are placed in the office under local anesthetic through a submental (external chin) incision. My advice would be to request either a medium or large prosthetic.

William Portuese, MD · Answer

Small chin implants are usually not very noticeable to family and friends of a patient. A large chin implant is much more noticeable. Most people do not even notice that a small chin implant has been placed. A beard or goatee is also an excellent camouflage for the first couple of months after the surgery until full healing has occurred.

Chase Lay, MD · Answer

Hey Thathoustonguy,

	First off, Hook'em Horns!  We've got a bowl game coming up.  Now, with that out of the way.

	Generally less is more.  Your profile would be improved significantly with a small to medium chin implant.  The small is larger than you think.  If you're thinking of not having one at all. . .would the beard work?. .. .etc, then definitely go with the small.  I think you'd be pleased.  It'll balance your nose and face very nicely.

	People will notice the smaller implant. . .but then they won't and that's the idea.  They'll say, "Hey, you look a little different, you look good."  Not, "what'd you do to your face."  

	Go small but pick the right shape.  Your chin has good height, it just needs projection so you want an implant that is not too pointed.

	Best of luck

	Chase Lay, MD

	Texas Native

Will a Small Chin Implant Be Very Noticeable? (photo)

Answers (7)