Many people are surprised to learn how the chin can affect overall facial harmony and appearance. If you desire a strong, defined chin to enhance your facial profile and beauty, chin implants are an ideal facial cosmetic surgery. Whether you want to refine your appearance subtly or make a more noticeable change, chin augmentation can offer natural-looking, lasting results. At our San Diego practice, Dr. Robert Kearney brings years of surgical expertise and an artistic eye to every procedure, ensuring results customized to your unique goals.
You may be a candidate for a chin implant if:
- You have a receding chin
- You have a chin that looks too small in comparison with your other facial features
- Your profile shows a receding chin that could be increased for more prominence and balance
The ideal outcome for a chin implant procedure is to have an improved profile and a more attractive jaw line that creates a better balance between your chin and other facial features. Many patients choose to have a chin implant placed at the time rhinoplasty is performed in order to give balance and symmetry to their profile.
Procedure
Dr. Kearney performs chin implants as an out patient procedure and can be done under either local or general anesthesia. An incision is made inside the lower lip or directly under the chin and an implant is placed and then sutured in and the incision is closed. Though performed less often, there is an alternative method for chin enlargement called a sliding osteotomy where a portion of the chin bone is permanently moved forward.
Recovery
Patients can go home following surgery and usually have a small dressing over the chin area where the incision was made. Dr. Kearney will prescribe medication to help control initial discomfort but most patients are able to return to work 3-5 days after a chin implant. Most bruising and swelling is gone within 7-10 days though there may be some tenderness and numbness that can last up to a month.
Benefits of Chin Implants
Chin implants offer more than just aesthetic enhancement—they can significantly improve your face's overall balance and symmetry. Here are some of the key benefits of this transformative procedure:
- Enhanced Facial Harmony: A well-defined chin helps balance your profile, especially with the nose, jawline, and neck. It can create a more proportional, attractive appearance.
- Stronger Jawline: For individuals with a recessed or underdeveloped chin, implants can create a stronger, more structured jawline, giving the lower face a firmer, youthful look.
- Long-Lasting Results: Chin implants are made from durable, biocompatible materials that offer permanent enhancement.
- Minimal Downtime: The procedure is relatively brief and performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients return to daily activities within a week.
- Boosted Self-Confidence: Many patients feel more self-assured in social and professional settings after their chin augmentation, thanks to a renewed sense of facial balance and attractiveness.
Why Choose Dr. Robert Kearney for Chin Implants
When considering chin implants, choosing the right surgeon is key to achieving natural, harmonious results—and Dr. Robert Kearney brings a wealth of experience, precision, and artistry to every procedure. A Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon in both Plastic Surgery and General Surgery, Dr. Kearney has trained extensively at some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, including a plastic surgery residency at Vanderbilt University and a craniofacial fellowship under a world-renowned surgeon. His background gives him a vast understanding of facial structure, allowing him to create beautifully balanced and individualized results for each patient.
With a special interest in cosmetic surgery of the face, Dr. Kearney stays at the forefront of aesthetic advancements, offering the latest techniques in surgical enhancement and skin rejuvenation. Known for his personable approach and commitment to patient-centered care, Dr. Kearney believes that plastic surgery should enhance—not alter—your natural features. Based in San Diego, he brings surgical skills and a genuine passion for helping people feel their best.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long until I see my final results?
Most swelling resolves within a few weeks, but final results typically appear around 2–3 months after surgery.
Are chin implants safe?
Yes, chin implants are considered very safe when a board-certified plastic surgeon like Dr. Kearney performs the surgery, with complications being rare.
Do chin implants last forever?
Chin implants are made to be long-lasting and often permanent. However, they can be removed or replaced if needed or if you desire another change.
What should I expect during a consultation with Dr. Kearney?
Dr. Kearney will assess your facial features, learn about your goals, explain your options, and develop a personalized plan to achieve your desired look.
Dr. Kearney and our staff are more than happy to address any questions or concerns you may have about chin augmentation in La Jolla and San Diego. Please contact our office at (800) 671-1951 or fill out our online form.
