Plastic Surgery Trends: Chin Filler or Augmentation?

Yes, chin augmentation is a thing, even if it’s not as widely performed as, say, liposuction. At 16,136 procedures performed in 2017, according to the ASPS, chin augmentation is a respectable surgical procedure. A “weak chin,” according to recurring studies, is often seen as a hurdle, particularly for men. There seems to be a link between success in life and a strong jawline, which is why men intent on improving their image turn to chin augmentation.

But what if there was an alternative that requires less time, pain, and cost than plastic surgery? Injectable fillers such as Juvederm are one such alternative. To help you determine whether you should go with a chin filler or chin augmentation, we will explore both alternatives in this article.

Why Chin Augmentation?

There are several reasons for wanting to enhance or augment your chin. The most common reason is that you may have a recessive or “weak” chin. This means that your chin recedes inward, thus throwing off the balance of your facial features. Balancing your nose with a stronger looking chin will give your face a more chiseled and harmonious profile.

Perhaps you have a fairly “strong” chin, but you are frustrated by that small pocket of fat hanging below your chin, also called a double chin. Chin augmentation – particularly if combined with liposuction to the neck – can conceal a double chin by creating more definition to your chin and jawline.

Or maybe you have a pointy chin, a chin that is too square, or a pointy or long nose that will be better balanced by a differently-shaped chin. All these are reasons you might seek a chin augmentation.

How Does Chin Augmentation Work?

During a chin augmentation, your plastic surgeon places an implant in front of your jawbone. Such implants are typically made of silicone (in some cases Gore-Tex), and much like with a breast implant, you get to choose your preferred size and shape. The incision is typically made in the crease line under the chin or inside the mouth. In either case, it is well hidden from view.

In some cases, a patient may not even require chin implant surgery, because the doctor is able to move the jawbone forward. Whether or not you require implants, and if so which kind best suits your facial type, is something you will discuss in a personal consultation with your plastic surgeon.

For more information about chin augmentation, read Understanding Mentoplasty by the the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery.

Chin Fillers as an Alternative to Augmentation

Do you shy away from, or are not quite ready yet for plastic surgery? Then injectable fillers are a great alternative to achieve a stronger-looking chin. When you undergo a non-surgical or “liquid chin enhancement,” your plastic surgeon injects a liquid dermal filler into the chin and cheeks to better define your jawline. The treatment can also be provided by a licensed nurse injector. Juvederm and Voluma are popular facial fillers that work well for this treatment.

The advantage of a liquid chin filler vs surgery is that it is, well, non-surgical. There is next to no recovery period. You might experience a little bit of bruising and swelling, as is common with injectables, but any such reactions only last a day or two and don’t cause much discomfort at all.

On the flipside – there always is one in life, isn’t there? – chin fillers are not permanent. They last quite a long time, anywhere from 9-12 months, but if you want to permanently alter your appearance, you have to go in for recurring treatments. Many patients are quite happy with such an arrangement.

Pros and Cons of Chin Augmentation vs Chin Fillers

Whether you undergo a chin augmentation or start with an injectable chin filler to test the waters, bear in mind the following pros and cons:

Pros of a surgical chin augmentation

• It is permanent without the need for repeat treatments
• It typically gives you great results, and you can “design” precisely what you want
• It will pay off over time

Cons of a surgical chin augmentation

• There are more risks, as with any surgery
• There is a recovery period with downtime and discomfort
• It has a higher upfront cost

Pros of injectable chin fillers

• There is little downtime and minimal recovery
• It’s easy and fast with little risk
• It’s a great way to “try out” your new look
• You can change your appearance more gradually

Cons of injectable chin fillers

• It’s not permanent and recurring treatment will eventually become expensive
• Depending on your surgeon or aesthetician, the filler may not look precisely the way you expected

This last point is something to bear in mind. Similar to Botox, injectable fillers require a special touch that can only be learned with experience. It is not only a matter of where to place the injection but also how to massage the skin to shape the final result. This means that no matter whether you go in for a surgical procedure or injectables, you should make sure you select a board-certified plastic surgeon with specific experience in facial surgery.

Are you unhappy with the appearance of your facial profile, your jawline, or your neck? Visit NuBody Concepts and find out how we can help you look younger and boost your confidence!

References

1. 2017 Cosmetic Plastic Surgery Statistics by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons

2. Understanding Mentoplasty by the the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery