When we talk of ‘normal’ facial appearance, we imply that there is a ‘normal’ balance to the features of the face- particularly the nose, the chin and the check-bones. If one of these features is out of proportion with the others, a face can look out unusual or maybe ‘abnormal’ especially to someone who is aesthetically sensitive. As it is instinctive for most of us to want to look normal, it is understandable that a person can feel self-conscious if a feature of his or her face is out of proportion; either too large or too small.
What can be done?
A recessive chin can be built out either by sliding the chin forwards or by inserting an implant on the bone. Each of these operations is carried out through a cut made in the grove between the lower lip and the gum though if an implant is used, the surgeon may advise that the cut is made in the natural crease under the chin.
The implants which are used are manufactured usually from silicone or other non- biological materials and are safe and well- tolerated by the body. Sometimes it is necessary to use a bone graft, which would probably be taken from the crest of the hip and leave a noticeable scar.
These operations can usually be done at the same time as other facial cosmetic surgery, such as a face lift or an operation to reshape the nose.
What are the consequences?
If the cut is made inside the mouth, there will be no visible scar. If made the chin, the scar should be inconspicuous in the line of the natural crease.
There is always some swelling and sometimes bruising which settles within three weeks.
Temporary numbness of the lower lip after chin surgery and of the upper lip and the side of the nose after surgery on the cheeks is common. It usually disappears within a few days though you may have a period of pins-and-needles discomfort during recovery.
An implant, particularly when it used to build out the chin, may not become firmly fixed to the underlying bone and fell a bit unstable.
However, this is unlikely to have any effect on your appearance. Sometimes though, the outline of the implant’s shape can be visible under the skin. Because there may be some scarring in the muscles of the chin as a result of surgery, you may find that your chin creases unnaturally when you smile.