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Chin Implant Placement,
Bone Screws & More
The number one
reason for a revision surgery regarding cosmetic reasons is
dissatisfaction from improper implant placement.
Sizing
The second reason? Too
big or too small of an implant. In common
augmentation cases, 3-4mm thick implants are used. It is possible that
one may need more and these implants are easily ordered as is,
custom-ordered or carved from solid medical grade implant silicone or
other type blocks to suit your individual needs. Also, there may be
in-office sizers to determine the augmentation size pre-operatively
although do not rely on these as they are often hard to place for a realistic
preview.
Saline
injections can be used at your consultation and are a little painful but helpful. They
will not give you a superlative idea of definition, but they can let you
know what it looks like to have a chin before you actually get it.
Commuter
Imaging is another source of "try-on." Please see our computer
imaging section for more information.
Implant
Fixation
The third reason? Displacement,
i.e. "shifting." The main reason implants shift is because
of improper pocket formation. You do not need fixation with screws
to hold your implant in place. A perfectly sized pocket can be made
and hold your implant in place.
For those of you who insist on
fixation, titanium screws may be the answer. These
screws can be used to secure most solid silicone and other types of malar
implants into your underlying bone to fixate the implant and prevent it
from shifting or falling within the face. A few patients report
occasional cold sensitivity when screws have been utilized. This is
usually remedied by ascertaining that the screws are placed away
from any nerve clusters.
Another option
is permanent or resorbable suture fixation. The implant can also be
fixated with a non-resorbable (permanent) or resorbable suture material
onto the periosteum. The periosteum is thick and is often used in
chin implant fixation.
Scar
Capsule Formation
As with any foreign body,
a scar capsule may form around the implant. Discuss with your doctor his
preferred implant material and brand of choice for further information.
This should not effect the cosmetic results of your chin implant as it
can with breast implants. Chin implants are hard and will not
distort under the contraction of a fibrous membrane.
The Key
To Successful Chin Augmentation
Most surgeons are able to skillfully place your implant, secure them
and send you on your way to satisfaction. However, beware the
surgeon who does not stay on the bone. This is important. If the implant
is right under the skin it is more palpable and has an increased rate of
infection and shifting. They must also make the pocket the correct size.
This is not breast implant surgery where the pocket is made to be roomy,
with chin implants this can cause the implant to heal in
place improperly or shift afterwards. Thus, a proportionate pocket
must be made to accommodate the implant itself and nothing more.
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