Mentoplasty - Chin Augmentation - Chin Implants Houston*

Chin surgery, also known as mentoplasty, is a procedure to reshape the chin either by augmentation with an implant or reduction surgery on the bone. Individuals elect to have this because they feel their chin is too small or too large and doesn’t fit with their ideal proportions of the face and neck. Dr. Kridel performs chin augmentation surgery for Houston patients desiring a sharper profile and more balanced facial appearance. While it may be done as an isolated procedure, it is also commonly combined with other facial surgeries such as rhinoplasty, facelift and liposuction to achieve optimal facial harmony.

It is very common that patients combine a chin implant with cosmetic nose surgery, known as rhinoplasty. A weak chin can give the appearance of a larger nose or a shorter neckline. For some patients, due to genetics, trauma or malformation, cosmetic alteration of the nose or chin alone does not provide the optimal facial proportion a patient desires. During the consultation, we will complete a thorough evaluation, including digital photo imaging, to determine if chin surgery, as well as rhinoplasty, is needed to achieve maximum facial harmony.

As a facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Russell Kridel focuses exclusively on aesthetic surgery for the face, head and neck and has won numerous awards by peers and patients for his surgical expertise and quality patient care. Dr. Kridel has published over 100 scientific journal articles on facial rejuvenation surgery, including chin implants. Patients, including family members, come from Houston and throughout the country for surgery because of Dr. Kridel's recognized skill and experience in this area.

Chin augmentation surgery takes about an hour and is performed with a biocompatible medical-grade implant that is designed in a variety of shapes and sizes. During this surgery, Dr. Kridel will insert the chin implant using a small incision in the natural crease line under the chin or inside the mouth. The implant feels like normal bone when it is in place. After implantation, Dr. Kridel will secure the implant with a few stitches. When the incision is inside the mouth, no scarring is visible. If the incision is under the chin, the scar is hidden and virtually undetectable.

Chin augmentation is an outpatient procedure that is performed under general anesthesia at a nearby accredited surgical facility. Immediately after surgery, a dressing is applied that will remain in place for three to four days.  Any pain is minimal, however, patients may experience some tenderness, swelling and a stretched, tight sensation after the surgery. This usually subsides in a week. After several weeks, most swelling will be gone and patients are thrilled with their results. Patients do not feel the implant because it assumes the consistency and feel of their own tissue.

Most patients can expect to pay between $2,500-$3,500 for a chin augmentation procedure. The exact and final cost will vary depending on the extent of the surgery.

Chin implants are designed to offer patients a more harmonious jawline.  Patients who have a “double chin” may also have submental liposuction done at the same time as the implant surgery, where the fat under the chin and neck is removed. 

Scarring is very minimal with the chin augmentation surgical techniques used by Dr. Kridel because the incision is placed either on the inside of the mouth, where it is completely hidden, or it is made under the chin, where it is also virtually hidden from sight.

Chin implants have an excellent record for safety and patient satisfaction. At FSPA we use medical-grade materials, and will be happy to show you samples of implants during your consultation.