Am I A Good Candidate For A Chin Implant?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Thank you for reviewing my inquiry. I’m wondering if you would recommend a chin implant for me and if yes, what size/type? I am looking for a very conservative, natural, feminine and pretty result, especially since I am petite. 

I have an asymmetric chin, with the left side being shorter than the right and the thickness might even vary, even though it’s subtle. I also have hollowing on the sides that is concerning as I age (I just turned 40). And my chin is a bit square-shaped, so I don’t want anything that is going to make me look masculine. I am thin and have a long-ish face, so I wouldn’t want length either, though I understand with most chin implants some length is a given? 

I had a consultation with a doctor who recommended a size small Implantech extended anatomical implant. However, I see that you are the authority on facial implants and surgery and your opinion would be greatly appreciated, as I would like to plan a procedure and feel that your care and expertise would be of comfort. 

Also, what is the cost of this service under your care? 

Thank you kindly for your time and consideration.

A:Thank you for your inquiry and sending your picture. You have fairly short chin that is angulated backwards and is vertically long. With such anatomy you are not really a good candidate for a chin implant as implants are technically designed to sit on the front of the bone which will make your chin longer. The implant can be moved up higher but this is not how they are ideally designed to work. You are a far better candidate for a sliding genioplasty which can bring your chin forward AND make it shorter. This may not be the operation you want but it is the better chin augmentation option from a dimensional standpoint than an implant with your chin anatomy.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana