Can I Just Augment the Chin and Jaw Angles Instead Of A Wrap round Jawline Implant?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Hello, I’m interested in a custom 3D-printed implant focused specifically on enhancing my chin projection and mandibular angles only, rather than a full wraparound jaw implant. I’m looking for a natural, balanced result with improved definition in the chin and jaw angles without adding bulk along the entire jawline. Do you offer partial custom implants for this purpose, and would I be a good candidate? Also, do you provide 3D imaging or simulation to preview the expected outcome prior to surgery? Additionally, could you provide an estimated price range for this type of procedure, including surgeon fees, anesthesia, and implant design?

A: Three corner jaw implant augmentation can be done if that fits into the patient’s aesthetic objectives. The question is not whether you would be a good candidate but what are your very specific jaw augmentation goals as custom implant designs are based on a good understanding of the exact dimensional changes the patient is seeking. This is where the role of imaging comes into play, determining the patient’s aesthetic objectives, not showing patient actual surgical outcomes since no one can predict exactly what that will be. This is a common misunderstanding of the role of imaging in facial surgery.

Determining the cost of surgery depends on multiple factors which as of yet are not known. Most specifically what is the implant material to be used of which the two most popular choices are solid silicone and PEEK.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Plastic Surgeon