Q - What is chin augmentation?
Chin augmentation, or chin enhancement, is a common plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance of the chin or jaw line. This can help to create better balance in the aesthetic proportions of the face. To build up a receding chin, chin augmentation is commonly performed with the use of an implant. Chin augmentation may be performed on its own or it may be combined with other procedure like a facelift, neck liposuction or rhinoplasty.

Q - What is cheek augmentation?
Cheek augmentation is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance of a weak cheekbone structure. This can be achieved with the use of an implant or through the use of the patient’s own fat cells. Cheek augmentation can add prominence to the cheekbones which in turn can create better balance among the facial features.

Q - What are facial implants made of?
Dr. Buckingham uses silicone or Gortex implants for chin augmentation. For cheek augmentation, he typically prefers the preformed or “custom” Implantec cheek implants.

Q - Who is the best candidate for chin or cheek augmentation?
Candidates for chin or cheek augmentation are in good physical health and have realistic expectations for improving the appearance of the chin or cheeks. A private consultation with Dr. Buckingham is the best way to determine if chin or cheek augmentation is right for you.

Q - What can I expect during a consultation for chin or cheek augmentation?
During your consultation for chin or cheek augmentation, Dr. Buckingham will perform a facial analysis with the use of digital imaging. This will allow him to determine the best procedure to meet your goals and expectations. At this time, Dr. Buckingham will also address any questions or concerns that you may have.

Q - Are chin and cheek augmentation inpatient or outpatient procedures?
Chin and cheek augmentation procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis.

Q - Where are chin and cheek augmentation procedure performed?
Chin augmentation may be performed in the office with local anesthesia and mild oral sedation or at the outpatient surgery center.  Cheek augmentation is performed in an outpatient surgical center with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. 

Q - How are chin and cheek augmentation procedures performed?
For chin augmentation, a small incision is made just beneath the chin.  Dr. Buckingham prefers this incision to intraoral incisions because it offers more precise implant placement and allows exact re-approximation of the chin muscles.  Intraoral incisions have been associated with chin contour irregularities from improper muscle healing. For cheek augmentation, a small incision is made inside of the upper lip.  This implant is then inserted through the incision and positioned, and the incision is then closed.

Q - How long does is the surgical time for chin and cheek augmentation procedures?
Chin and cheek augmentation procedures typically take an average of thirty minutes to an hour to complete.

Q - Are there scars after chin and cheek augmentation procedures?
The incisions made for chin and cheek augmentation procedures do result in scars though they are typically very small. Incisions made on the inside of the mouth are not visible while those made on the skin are typically well-concealed.

Q - Is there much pain with chin and cheek augmentation procedures?
Chin and cheek augmentation procedures may result in some post-operative discomfort though this can be alleviated with medication.

Q - What is the recovery like after chin and cheek augmentation procedures?
The recovery after chin and cheek augmentation procedures lasts approximately one week for social activities although minor swelling will persist for several more weeks.   Patients may experience some bruising as well as some initial tightness with facial movements like smiling, talking and moving the lips. Any discomfort can be alleviated with medication.

Q - How much time will I need to take off from work after undergoing chin or cheek augmentation?
The recovery after chin and cheek augmentation procedures takes about one week and most patients are able to return to work and other normal activities within this time.

Q - When are the stitches removed after chin and cheek augmentation procedures?
Any surface stitches used are typically removed within five to seven days.  Cheek augmentation procedures are often performed with absorbable sutures which dissolve on their own.

Back to chin implant / cheek augmentation | Back to FAQs