Facial Surgery
Chin and Jaw Implants
Implants to enhance chin projection or define the jawline and jaw angle, including implants custom-designed for each patient.
Overview
Chin and jaw implants enhance the lower face by adding volume over the bone, increasing chin projection or defining the jawline and angle.
They are one of two main options for chin augmentation; the other is genioplasty, which moves the chin bone itself. The choice depends on the type and degree of deficiency.
Who May Benefit
- Patients with mild to moderate chin retrusion and a normal bite
- Patients seeking a more defined jawline
- Patients with chin or jaw asymmetry that an implant can balance
- Patients who do not need a change in vertical chin height
Conditions Treated
- Chin retrusion (microgenia)
- Poorly defined jawline
- Underdeveloped jaw angle
- Lower facial asymmetry
Diagnosis
The face is analysed from the front and in profile, and the bite is examined. When chin retrusion is part of a retruded lower jaw with a malocclusion, orthognathic surgery may be more appropriate. Imaging is used to assess the bone.
Treatment Planning
Implants are compared with genioplasty: implants generally suit mild to moderate forward augmentation, while genioplasty allows larger movements and correction of height and symmetry. Implant type, size and position are chosen to match the goal.
Virtual Planning
3D Planning
For jaw and asymmetry cases, a patient-specific implant can be designed on a 3D model from CT imaging, matching the bone surface and reproducing the planned contour precisely.
Surgical Overview
Chin implants are placed through an incision inside the mouth or a small incision under the chin; jaw and angle implants are usually placed through incisions inside the mouth. The implant is fixed to the bone to prevent movement. Surgery is usually performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on the case.
Recovery
Swelling and tightness are common in the first days, with a soft diet and careful oral hygiene for intraoral incisions. Most swelling settles within two to three weeks, and the final contour emerges over months.
Risks & Considerations
All surgery carries risk. Potential risks are discussed in detail during consultation, and may include:
- Infection, which may require implant removal
- Implant displacement or asymmetry
- Temporary or permanent numbness of the lower lip or chin
- Palpable implant edges
- Minor bone resorption beneath the implant
- Need for revision surgery
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: a chin implant or genioplasty?
Neither is best for everyone. Implants suit mild to moderate augmentation, while genioplasty suits larger changes or adjustments in height and symmetry. The right option is decided after examination.
Can an implant be removed later?
Yes, it can be removed or exchanged if needed, although the soft tissues may not return exactly to their previous shape.
The information on this website is for general educational purposes and does not replace a consultation. Suitability for any procedure, and its potential benefits and risks, can only be determined following an individual clinical assessment. Individual results vary.
Related Procedures
- GenioplastyRepositioning of the chin bone to improve its projection, height or symmetry.
- Mandibular Angle ContouringReshaping the lower jaw angle through the mouth to reduce lower-face width and create a smoother jawline.
- Virtual Surgical PlanningThree-dimensional analysis and simulation of jaw and facial surgery on a digital model of the patient’s anatomy.
Discuss your options with Dr. Bakri
A consultation is the first step toward an accurate diagnosis and an individual plan.