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Tips and Traps in Chin Augmentation Surgery: An Underrepresented Important Focal Point of the Face
Darrick Antell
*, Cole Mersereau
Plastic Surgery, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
Background: The chin is a focal point of the face that appears to be underrepresented in literature. Dieting and exercise have no effect on the size or shape of the chin. Neither does "mewing", the practice of moving your tongue to the top of your mouth, which social media has popularized. Prior research has shown people with stronger chins to advance to higher rank in the military as well as to achieve success in the business world. Dr. Nancy Etcoff in her book (1. Etcoff), "Survival of the Prettiest" has done extensive research documenting the importance of attractiveness of the animal kingdom, including humans for survival. Today you wear your resume on your face.
Methods: In reviewing my last 98 chin procedures, including augmentations, I analyzed the impact of the chin on overall facial features. This involved reviewing the initial diagnosis, nuances of chin anatomy, and procedures to achieve the optimal result. Starting with an intraoral exam of the teeth, the occlusion, inquire if there has been prior orthodontic treatment and the condition of the gingiva and particularly the attached gingiva. Review the patients' facial features at rest and with animation, to reveal otherwise unnoticeable asymmetries.
Results: Focusing on surgical approaches, we considered the location of incision, type of anesthesia, and implant type, including custom implants from scans for the surgical outcomes of each patient. An in-depth review of these factors has allowed me, and hopefully others, to increase safety, satisfaction, and success in their chin procedures. An example of a patient's chin augmentation can be seen in Figure 1. Other contributing factors that were considered for each patient include complications form infection, shifting of the implant and more.
Conclusion: With the correct diagnosis and understanding of the patient's expectations, surgeons may learn the importance of the chin in facial harmony and the high satisfaction rate that comes along with it.
Etcoff,
Survival of the Prettiest, 1999
Figure 1. Before and After of Chin Augmentation
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