Are Chin Implants Reversible? (Guest Post)

Hi alls! You might be wondering, "Eros got a chin implant?!". Well nope, I didn't haha (although I would love to get my square shaped chin made more V/U). Although my chin is considered quite nice (and manly I guess), I usually photoshop it to make it rounder, just because I think I look better that way.

Like most plastic surgery procedures, I thought chin implants were permanent and would only disappear one they dissolve. That's kind of the reasons why I was kind of apprehensive towards chin implants. I remember reading someone's blog post about a botched chin implant that they had to remodel themselves while it was still soft, and it solidified into a wonky shape!

A representative from Dr. Donald Ronald recently inquired about a guest posting here on my blog to talk amore about it, and I said, why not! So without further ado, here's everything you need to know about chin implants.

The chin is one of the main features of the bottom half of the face that provides a finished facial profile. Along with the nose, it helps to balance the rest of the face. A well-defined and contoured chin also improves the appearance of the jawline and enhances facial attractiveness.

A twisted, unshapely, or malformed chin distorts the facial symmetry and can cause a person to feel less attractive or lose self-confidence. In cases where issues with the chin interfere with the facial profile, chin surgery may be done to correct the flaw.

Mentoplasty, also known as chin augmentation using chin implants, is a surgical procedure done by a plastic surgeon for medical or cosmetic purposes. Once the chin implant is inserted, the chin can be reshaped and contoured to improve facial definition. People living in Manhattan, NY, and elsewhere, including celebrities, come to Dr. Donald Roland, M.D., Board Certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, to have their chin implant surgery safely and effectively done.

Despite the various aesthetic benefits chin implants can offer to those seeking to enhance their facial appearance, they are often concerned with whether chin implants are reversible. The reversibility of any plastic surgery procedure helps people decide if it is right for them. Patients are normally relieved to learn that while a chin implant surgery is permanent, it is also reversible!

Reasons for Chin Implants

The reasons for chin implant range from medical to aesthetic. Chin implant may be necessary for some persons, particularly those whose chin did not develop properly. For others, a chin augmentation is done mainly to enhance their beauty. Whatever the reason, it is critical to use a certified plastic surgeon who is skilled in chin implant surgery. Chin implant may be especially beneficial in reshaping and contouring the chin, defining the cheek bone, and balancing the face in the following circumstances:

• The chin is malformed (e.g., receding chin or short chin)
• The chin is misshapen due to trauma or injury
• Weak jawline
• Low volume in the cheeks
• There is excess fatty tissue or sagging skin beneath the chin
• A need to augment another facial surgery (such as a rhinoplasty)
• To reduce the signs of aging

Types of Chin Implants

Modern chin implants are anatomical which means they come in various shapes, sizes, and textures and are flexible for easy contouring of the chin and jawline to give a natural look. Oval-shaped implants are more suitable for females while square implants give males a more masculine appearance.

Implants can be custom made or the surgeon can alter a pre-made one to suit the patient’s needs. Certain implants are more versatile than others and may be more easily adjusted or removed. Common types of chin implants include:
• Solid silicone
• Acrylic
• Silastic
• Hydroxyapatite
• E-PTFE (expanded polytetrafluoroethylene)

Chin Implant Surgery

Chin implant surgery is a safe and effective medical procedure. It is typically done by a certified plastic surgeon of choice at the surgeon’s office, a hospital or surgical center. The surgery is minimally invasive and is usually done under local or general anesthesia. The technique used for performing the surgery may vary from one surgeon to another. But it generally involves making an incision inside the mouth or underneath the chin before the chin implant is fitted around the chin bone.

The procedure usually takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. It may be done by itself or in combination with another surgical procedure such as a rhinoplasty (nose job) or facial liposuction to achieve better facial symmetry. If another surgical procedure is being done, surgery time may be longer.

Reversing Chin Implant Surgery

Even after a detailed surgical plan, some patients are not happy with the results and may seek a revision or removal of the chin implant. A chin implant procedure can be revised to correct the results or remove the implant altogether.

A chin that is twisted, malpositioned or asymmetrical after surgery is a good reason for chin implant reversal surgery. An implant is commonly adjusted, removed, or replaced due to an issue with the size or finished shape of the chin or face.

Implants made from silicone or silastic are more easily removable than those that graft into the body. Removing those that attach to the tissues requires special expertise to avoid trauma or scarring. This is why choosing the right plastic surgeon for initial placement, revision, or removal of a chin implant is so important.

Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon

Whether it is for placement, adjustment, or removal, chin implant surgery is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. For this reason, you should choose a plastic surgeon who is board certified and have years of experience doing chin augmentation with the use of chin implant. An expert surgeon, such as Dr. Ronald, will create a treatment plan specially suited to each individual patient. Tailoring your plan involves an initial assessment, medical evaluation, and physical examination to ensure chin implant surgery is right for you. It also includes choosing the right type, size, and shape of implant to achieve the most desirable chin shape and facial profile.

To avoid visible scarring, the implant is inserted through an incision made at a location that cannot be easily seen. The incision is typically made inside the lower lip or under the chin and sutured after the implant is fitted. Healing time depends on the individual, but patients may return to work or regular non-strenuous activities within 3-7 days. It usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to see the visible results of the surgery. When done correctly, chin implant surgery can correct chin flaws and provide a more desirable facial profile. Find out if this medical procedure is right for you by scheduling a consultation with the office of Dr. Donald Roland, MD. Dr. Roland is a board-certified, NYC plastic surgeon specializing in chin augmentation and other facial rejuvenation procedures as well as cosmetic breast and body surgeries.