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Many people have a chin that is too
small for their face. When one has a lack of chin projection, the face
is weakened. It can also make the nose look larger than it really is.
For this reason, many patients will seek surgery to improve the
appearance of the chin. This is accomplished in two ways.
First a small incision is made either
underneath the chin or inside the mouth, and either one of the
following is used:
-
Genioplasty - An existing portion of the chin is brought forward
and down to the desited placement.
- Implants:
A small synthetic implant over the natural bone.
The operation can also greatly
enhance the results of a facelift, since loss of chin projection may
occur with aging. Chin augmentation is also commonly combined with
facial liposuction, where fat is removed from under the chin and from
the neck.
Cheekbone Augmentation
High cheekbones have traditionally
been a sign of beauty. Unfortunately, not everyone is born with that
look. The procedure consists of placing a synthetic implant over the
natural cheekbone. Implants come in a variety of sizes and shapes so
that the cosmetic surgeon can select the proper one for each patient.
Men also frequently seek this position to correct flatness in the mid
face. As is the case with chin augmentation, the operation is
frequently combined with other cosmetic procedures such as rhinoplasty
or facelift. Additionally, it is frequently combined with chin
augmentation.
How is a Cheekbone
Augmentation Performed? A small
incision is made inside the mouth in the crease above the upper lip. A
sterile implant, similar to the consistency of the natural cheekbone,
is placed over the natural cheekbone to increase its projection. The
implant is secured and the incision is sutured closed. These
procedures can be performed with either a local or general anesthetic,
depending on the preferences of the surgeon and patient. The
operations can be performed in the hospital or in an outpatient
surgical suite.
How Will I Look After?
Some swelling and bruising can be
expected and usually subsides within the first two weeks. A tape of
elastic dressing may be recommended for a period of time. Mild
discomfort is usually easily controlled with medications prescribed by
your cosmetic surgeon. After healing, the skin drapes smoothly over
the implants. The implants themselves conform to the bone and are
usually undetectable. The added projection of the chin should result
in significant improvement which is especially apparent in the
profile. The cheekbones can be expected to mimic natural high
cheekbones.
What Are the Risks?
There are risks in any surgical procedure. In rare circumstances, an
implant may have to be removed or changed due to unexpected problems.
This can usually be done with little difficulty. Occasionally, there
may be numbness from the surgery. You should discuss all the benefits
and risks with your cosmetic surgeon. |