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Should I Have a Chin Implant or Genioplasty?

The chin is a defining facial feature. Strong chins can give men and women alike an air of confidence, power, and assertiveness. Having “no chin” often results in a face that can seem to lack character and presence, which is why an increasing number of patients are looking to chin augmentation or genioplasty to get a more defined, memorable, impressive facial contour.

There are two main routes towards a more defined chin – placing chin implants or altering the lower jaw’s structure through genioplasty. The suitability of either procedure depends on the patient’s desires and the surgeon’s availability and qualifications.

Fortunately, Dr. Jose Barrera offers both options to his patients in San Antonio, Texas. Dr. Barrera is an internationally renowned and extensively experienced plastic and reconstructive surgeon; having access to such a doctor is a privilege reserved for the very lucky few. Whether patients seeking chin augmentation opt for implants or genioplasty ultimately comes down to their unique goals and preferences, so choosing the right procedure is essential.

What is the Difference Between Chin Implants and Genioplasty?

Chin implants and genioplasty are two very different procedures. We’ve outlined some of the key distinctions here.

Chin Implants

Chin implantation is the less invasive of the two procedures. Usually conducted under local anesthesia, your plastic surgeon will make precise incisions on either side of the lower lip and expose the chin bone. A chin implant of your choosing is then secured to the lower jaw in the appropriate setting with titanium screws. Your surgeon then closes the incision and stitches the skin together. A pressure bandage is then worn for two days to ensure the altered chin remains in-place and protected.

Chin implants can be easily changed if patients are discontent with the results. The procedure also requires significantly less recovery time than that of genioplasty.

Genioplasty

Genioplasty is an invasive procedure. It does, however, produce exceptional and permanent results.

Through incisions in the lower lip, your surgeon will cut the bone of the lower jaw and reposition the chin segment in a more forward projection, fixing it in place with titanium plates and screws. Like chin implants, your surgeon then sutures the incision closed and applies a pressure bandage to be worn for two to three days following the surgery.

The results from genioplasty are very stable and long-lasting. However, the recovery is significantly longer than getting chin implants.

So, Which Option is Right for Me?

Younger patients should consider Genioplasty closer due to improved healing in youth and not having a foreign object placed in their body for the rest of their lives. Older patients may benefit from the reduced invasiveness of chin implants when compared to genioplasty.

A chin implant is limited to adding volume to the chin, but cannot effectively change its horizontal position or reduce its height or width.

Each procedure can be a life-changing solution, but it’s ultimately up to the patient to decide which is right for them.

Learn More!

The experience of the surgeon often limits patients to one procedure or the other. This is not the case with Dr. Barrera, an expert facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon who offers both chin implants and genioplasty in San Antonio, TX. Consult with him by calling 210 468 5426 or filling out his online form to find out how he can help you look the way you want.