Evaluating facial aesthetics can be a challenge. Oftentimes I will see a patient for rhinoplasty either primary or revision that inquires about their face harmony overall. Patients ask me if a chin augmentation can take place at the same time as rhinoplasty. There are studies and concepts that apply to facial relationships. One of these relationships is the nose to the chin. The rule of thumb is if the occlusion or the patient’s bite is normal (that is upper teeth slightly occlude over the lower teeth) then evaluation of this relationship between the nose and the chin can be taken into consideration.
We like to see a straight line from the area between the eyebrows on profile lineup with the most prominent portion of the chin. There are special x-rays that can be taken to evaluate this in detail. Generally speaking, a plastic surgeon with experience can evaluate the need for chin implant or chin augmentation.
If there is a noticeable deficiency of the chin, then either a temporary chin augmentation with fillers or a permanent chin augmentation with either fat or I prefer a silicone implant can be done. In my practice I occasionally do see a patient that needs a chin augmentation and rhinoplasty simultaneously. And, I can offer this as a service. The incision for the chin implant can be in the mouth or under the chin. If the patient does not have a strong preference, then I prefer under the chin through the skin.
Chin Lift or Chin Augmentation
A chin augmentation at the same time as reduction or augmentation rhinoplasty can add significant aesthetic appeal to face. Postoperatively there should be a compressive dressing for healing. This dressing will come off at the same time as the nasal packing is taken off. Stitches will come out a few days later. This in turn will follow with the splint removal of the nose. It will take place one week after packing removal.
It takes months for the overall swelling to completely subside. However, the patient will see a dramatic improvement immediately. Post ops are a requirement for both procedures. Infections are rare and if they occur there is a treatment. So therefore, yes rhinoplasty and general chin augmentation can be done simultaneously.
THOMAS TREVISANI, MD
BOARD CERTIFIED PLASTIC SURGEON
MEMBER AMERICAN SOCIETY OF AESTHETIC PLASTIC SURGERY
