Would A Chin Implant And Rhinoplasty Give My Face Better Balance?

Q: Dr. Eppley,  my jaw is small, not much of a jaw line, and have a slight receding chin. Wondering if an implant could achieve a balanced/symmetrical look or if I should pursue Orthognathic Surgery. Interested in Rhinoplasty as well. How long would recovery time be? Would the implant be permanent?

A:In looking at your pictures, I see no evidence/reason to pursue orthognathic surgery. Such jaw surgery is only done when there is a major occlusal (bite) problem which I suspect you do not have. Your facial balance could be improved by chin implant augmentation only. Chin implants are permanent and will never need to be replaced. I have done some imaging of that result which is best seen in side profile. You may also benefit from jaw angle implants for increased lower facial width. But I will await your response to what a chin implant alone does for your jawline. From a nose standpoint, your tip and nostril area is larger the rest of your nose. (out of balance) A rhinoplasty that focuses on narrows the tip cartilages and nostrils with a slight dorsal reduction would make a better balanced nose. I have done some imaging of that potential result which is best seen in a front view.

I would anticipate that recovery, from a return to work and not obviously looking like you have had surgery, would be 7 to 10 days. It would take the final shape and form of the nose and chin up to 3 months after surgery to have subtle changes in swelling to resolve and to see the true final result.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana