The chin is a sensitive feature of the face that impacts the overall appearance of the face. Most notably the size of the chin may magnify or minimize the perceived size of the nose. When the chin is out of proportion with other facial features or the chin does not complement the face, it can affect one’s self-image and confidence.

In general, mentoplasty improves the appearance and proportion of the chin, enhancing facial harmony and self-confidence.

What is mentoplasty?

Cosmetic surgery of the chin, or mentoplasty, is a procedure to improve the appearance of the chin. Specific features addressed in cosmetic surgery of the chin, and strictly for appearance enhancement, include:

Chin size, in relation to facial balance and harmony
Chin position in relationship to facial profile

Mentoplasty is designed to sculpt the chin in order to achieve a more pleasing profile and appearance, as well as achieve balance and harmony between facial features.

Is chin surgery right for me?

If you are bothered by the size or position of your chin, then cosmetic surgery of the chin, or mentoplasty, may be right for you. Good candidates for mentoplasty are:

Individuals undergoing nose surgery (rhinoplasty) and wishing to achieve greater balance between their facial features
Individuals with a positive outlook and specific goals in mind for improvement

Where do I begin?

A consultation with Dr. Han is the first step to learn how surgery of the chin can improve the appearance of your chin and facial harmony. A consultation is designed to fully educate you in a no pressure environment, and will include:

A discussion of your primary concerns and an evaluation of your individual case
The options available for surgery of the chin
The likely outcomes of surgery and any risks or potential complications
The course of treatment recommended by the doctor

The success of your procedure, safety and overall satisfaction will also require that you:

Honestly share your concerns and expectations
Fully disclose health history, current medications, the use of vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs
Commit to following all of your plastic surgeon’s instructions precisely

What are the risks with chin surgery?

By making the decision to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon like Dr. Han and following all the instructions given, you are taking an important step in helping to assure your safety.

Possible risks of mentoplasty include, but are not limited to:

Infection
Bleeding beneath the skin (hematoma)
Facial asymmetry

Surgery of the chin is a procedure in which aesthetic outcomes can be unpredictable, and in some cases a second procedure may be necessary to fully achieve your goals.

All surgery carries risks associated with anesthesia. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure and any risks or potential complications.

What can I do to prepare for my surgery?

Prior to surgery, you will be given specific instructions that may include:

Pre-surgical considerations, diagnostic testing and medications
Day of surgery instructions and medications
Specific information related to the use of anesthesia
Postoperative care and follow-up

It is natural to feel some anxiety, whether excitement for the anticipated outcomes or preoperative stress. It’s very important to discuss any questions or concerns directly with the doctor.

How will I be cared for on the day of my surgery?

Surgery of the chin may be performed either at our accredited office-based surgical facility, an ambulatory surgical facility or a hospital. The decision for anesthesia will be based on the requirements of your specific procedure.

If your procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, be sure to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.

How is eyelid surgery performed?

  Cosmetic surgery of the chin is an individualized procedure that takes into account all the specific characteristics that contribute to the overall appearance of the chin and its relation to other facial features. The doctor will carefully evaluate your individual case and goals for improvement to determine the specific features to address through surgery of the chin.

  Chin surgery is generally performed under intravenous anesthesia, though it can also be done under general anesthesia. An incision is made inside the mouth, which avoids leaving an external wound. Liposuction is sometimes performed at the same time as the mentoplasty.

  If you desire a more symmetrical chin, keep in mind that everyone’s face is asymmetric to some degree. Results may not be completely symmetrical, although the goal is to create facial balance and correct proportion.

What happens after surgery?

Once your procedure is complete packing will likely be placed inside your mouth where the incision was made.

The doctor will also instruct you regarding how to care for your surgical site(s) following surgery, take or apply medications, look for specific concerns and when to come in for follow-up visits.

Progress and healing

Initial healing may include some swelling, bruising, headache and discomfort that can be controlled with medication and cold compresses. These are all common conditions.

Immediately following your surgery:

You will be instructed to keep your head elevated until initial swelling has subsided
You will be instructed to keep any packing in place at all times
A return to light, normal activity is possible usually within a few days
Any packing will likely be removed after the first week or two

You will be ready to return to work after cosmetics can camouflage any bruising or redness that remains. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling continues to dissipate and the improved appearance of your chin begins to become apparent.

You must protect your chin from injury during any physical activity for the next 4 to 6 months

What should I know about my results?

The outcome of your chin surgery will appear gradually over time. At a minimum, a year is considered normal for the outcome of surgery of the chin to fully refine.

You should be pleased with the improved balance among your facial features resulting from surgery of the chin. Achieving your personal goals for an enhanced appearance will likely increase your self-confidence.