PLASTIC SURGERY

Q: Do you perform chin surgery? Is it common?

A: Yes, I perform chin augmentation surgery, commonly referred to as a “chinplant.” This is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin either by enhancement with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone. It is one of the faster growing surgical procedures at about 21,000 performed annually in the U.S., but far less common than procedures like breast augmentations (over 313,000 last year). Interestingly, it is one of a few procedures that has been more popular with men, and not surprisingly, most recipients are over age 55. This surgery is often performed on the lower jaw line and chin area to improve proportions of the face and to help with one’s confidence and self-esteem. These interventions are often suggested to improve the harmony of facial features and improve the chin/jaw/cheek/forehead balance. Sometimes bone from the jaw itself can be moved forward in an operation called a mentoplasty. Alternatively, shaped silicone implants can be used to give more projection to the chin. Conversely, bone can be removed to decrease an overly projecting chin. Furthermore, modifications to the upper and/or lower jaw can be advised for improved chewing dynamics and occlusion—or how the teeth fit together. The combination of operations can range from simple to complex.

I think the social media boom has impacted the growth of this procedure, as well as people wanting to work later in their years, and look good alongside younger colleagues. The chin and jawline are among the first facial areas to show signs of aging. For others, they just want a more profound profile or more definition around their chin.