Facial Enhancement

In some cultures, a prominent chin and neckline is considered a sign of strength and intelligence, and so is desired by some people lacking these characteristics. A weak chin is usually the result of an underdeveloped lower jaw (mandible), which also causes problems with how the teeth come together. This is best corrected by a combination of orthodontics and surgical advancement of the mandible (orthognathic surgery). In patients who have a normal dental relationship, the chin can be enhanced by surgery known as mentoplasty. An artificial chin implant can be placed in front of the bone to make the chin more prominent, or the bone of the chin can actually be cut and fixated in a more forward position, using screws and wires. An overly prominent chin can be corrected by the same procedure of cutting the bone and moving it back. This procedure is called genioplasty.

FACIAL LIPOSUCTION is also used to improve the appearance of the neck and face. Even people who are not overweight can have a double chin, saggy jowls or very round face. Fat deposits in these areas may be resistant to exercise and weight control. Tiny incisions are made in cosmetically-hidden areas of the face and jawline. A tube attached to suction is inserted into the fat and moved back and forth to loosen excess fat and vacuum it away. Afterwards, a compression dressing is applied to reduce swelling and allow the skin to heal smoothly and evenly. The tiny incisions heal quickly and are usually difficult to notice. Frequently, patients will choose to combine facial liposuction and chin enhancement to produce a better overall facial appearance.

A consultation is performed prior to any surgery. An overall facial examination and medical history evaluation is done to construct a plan of treatment conducive your personal esthetic needs. Pre-operative instructions and pertinent prescriptions will be given and explained. Cosmetic procedures are done in-office or hospital with intravenous sedation or general anesthesia depending upon patient preference and doctor recommendation. Actual surgery time varies according to procedure to be performed. After surgery, the patient is observed for 30 minutes or until discharge criteria is met. Post-Operative Instructions for Cosmetic/Soft Tissue Surgery will be reviewed with accompanying caregiver. Recovery time depends on the procedure performed and individual factors.