One of the elements that defines beauty is symmetry, or evenness. We consider a face beautiful if the eyes, nose and mouth are about equal in size and shape on both sides (bi-lateral symmetry), and if the facial features fit together in a pleasing way (balance). A small chin can make other features seem “wrong” in size or shape, when they are really perfectly normal.

Different Materials Used in Chin Augmentations

There are many ways to do chin augmentation surgery. Doctors can take bone or tissue from elsewhere on your body and place it into the chin area, or take a section of the jawbone and move it forward (called “Chin Advancement”). This will give the face a natural look. There is a risk of nerve damage, but in general, this method (using the body’s own materials) is the safest.

Silicon implants or gel injections are also an option. These products are safer than they once were and chemical reactions are rare. If you want an implant, you will need to choose the size, shape and firmness. Your doctor can provide you with advice, samples and pictures of how the implants look when inserted.

Semi-solid plastic implants made of polyethylene or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE) are more malleable than silicon and also seldom cause reactions. Some of these can even be carved to order.

However, there are many other options, depending on the look you want, your age, the thickness of your skin and whether you are male or female (since a strong chin is valued in men particularly, men have this surgery more than any other cosmetic procedure). There are several ways to use the bones of deceased donors in chin augmentation. Family members may also donate bone or tissue.

The latest in implant materials is chemically altered coral. The structure of the coral is changed so that it matches bone chemistry almost exactly. The body readily accepts these implants and bone begins to grow around them quickly.

Other materials are available in liquid injections and even spreadable paste form. Collagen is also an option, but it is not permanent.

Have Realistic Expectations for Your Chin Augmentation Surgery

Chin augmentation may or may not be necessary for you. Your surgeon can provide you with a series of measurement tests see if your features fall within normal proportions. Remember no one’s face is perfect. Don’t put yourself through the pain and expense of an operation if you need only minimal improvement. However, if you truly need surgery, modern chin augmentation methods are safer and more effective than ever.