Chin, Chin – The Chin is In!

• Jul. 25, 2012
• Topic: Anti-aging

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons recently released statistics showing that chin augmentation is the fastest growing plastic surgery trend among all major demographics in the United States. Chin implants grew more than breast augmentation, Botox and liposuction combined in 2011. The procedure skyrocketed in both men and women, as well as in all patients over the age of 20, with the largest increase seen in patients age 40 or older. The website notes that this phenomenon appears, in part, to be sparked by increased usage of video chat technology, an aging baby boomer population and a desire for success in the workplace.

According to some physicians, technology could be behind the growing trend, as poor posture can promote saggy jowls, double chins, and a condition coined as ‘smartphone face.’ That is, because of sitting for hours with your head bent slightly forward, staring at your smartphone, you may shorten the neck muscles and increase the gravitational pull leading to a drooping jaw line.

Virtua plastic surgeon William Franckle, MD, FACS, says, “Chin surgery has been done for years, usually in conjunction with rhinoplasty (nose job), to balance the face and create a strong jaw line.” 

If you’re one of the more than 20,000 Americans considering a chin implant, here’s what you need to know about the most popular implant surgery options:

• Silicone chin implants are rigid, and the surgery usually requires a small incision to insert the device in a pocket created under the skin.
• Porous biocompatible (compatible with human tissue) implants can be “sculpted” by the surgeon to create a fully customized look for each patient. This material adheres to the bone and feels like real bone.
• The procedure takes about 45 minutes and can range in cost from $2,500 to $6,000.

Dr. Franckle uses a 3-D imager in his office to enable patients to see their faces from every angle. He then morphs the shape to allow them see what a particular chin would do to change the look of the entire face, and he discusses which option will best help them achieve the look they want. “Some people come in for a nose reshaping procedure and wind up having their chin augmented instead to achieve a more balanced look,” notes Dr. Franckle.

The bottom line, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, is that there are a variety of cosmetic facial procedures that can help you look younger and boost your confidence, regardless of whether you’re doing it to look better online or score a promotion at work.