Ask Dr. Man- Chin Implant

Dear Dr. Man, I’m 29 years old and I’ve been a lawyer for 3 years now. I’ve always hated the way my profile looks- it has to do with my chin and my nose. It looks like I don’t even have a chin. I am a trial lawyer, so impressions are everything in my field. How can I be confident in the courtroom if I’m so concerned about people looking at my chin? This is why I’d like to get a chin implant. I read about it in a magazine and saw before and after photos of people who have had chin implant surgery and nose jobs and they look amazing. Can you please give me more information about what surgery entails? Thanks, Lawyer Gal in Boca

Dear Lawyer Gal, Chin implant surgery is a common procedure used to bring balance to the facial structure by correcting a weak chin. The chin defines our profile; therefore, chin implant surgery helps to improve the shape, contour, and balance of the face using special implants designed just for the chin. A weak chin can make a normal nose appear larger and an already prominent nose seem even larger; a weak chin may also give the appearance of a fleshy neck. Therefore, chin implants are often done in combination with nose surgery or a facelift.

Your surgeon will select the proper size and shape implant to enhance your appearance. During surgery, the implant is inserted through a small incision underneath the chin. Several stitches are used to close the suture site. Usually the chin is taped after surgery to minimize swelling and discomfort. Sutures in the skin will be removed in five to seven days. If an intra-oral incision (in the mouth) is used, the sutures will dissolve.

After surgery, patients may feel temporary discomfort, with some swelling, bruising, stiffness, or numbness in the affected area. It's normal to experience some temporary difficulty with smiling and talking. Black and blue marks may be visible around the chin and neck. Your plastic surgeon will instruct you about dental hygiene, eating and any restrictions to your activities after surgery.

The results you see on television may often be more dramatic than what you see in real life and no doctor can perform miracles; however, a highly skilled surgeon can transform what you do have into a more balanced look altogether. Chin implant surgery can do wonders to improve the facial structure; and many patients love their new look after surgery. Patients talk of increased confidence in both their personal and professional lives after having this surgery.

I recommend that you consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to see if getting a chin implant is the correct decision for you. Good luck!

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Dr. Daniel Man is a board-certified plastic surgeon who has dedicated his life’s work to helping people look younger and improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery. He is a noted author, artist, inventor and educator. Dr. Man has been featured on major television networks, as well as national and local magazines and newspapers for his work as both a plastic surgeon and an artist. He has a successful private practice in Boca Raton, FL. For more information about Dr. Man, visit www.drman.com.