Is A Vertical Lengthening Chin Implant Right For Me?

Q: Dr. Eppley, I am an older female who had a small chin implant placed many years which I have never been happy with. It provided a small amount of increased chin projection but it still looks short. I think it needs a vertical increase which I think would be best done by a vertical lengthening chin implant. Does this sound right to you? 

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending your pictures. While I think the attached imaging is clear that vertical chin lengthening is of aesthetic benefit, there are other dimensional issues to consider that go behind just that of the vertical dimension. In particular in the front view your perception of the width of your chin (do you want it wider as that is what a standard vertical lengthening can implant will do) and also in your case the prominent prejowl indentations which will not be eliminated by the use of a standard implant. (see attached image) It becomes important to know before surgery what the limitations of any implant style and size will do and not do so you don’t end up where you are now…improved but still with some missing improvements.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana