The chin is the anchor of the lower face. When it's weak, recessed, or asymmetric, the entire facial profile looks unbalanced — the nose appears larger, the neck less defined, and the jawline undefined. Conversely, proper chin projection creates the framework that allows other features to exist in harmony.
Chin augmentation enhances the projection, width, or definition of the chin using implants or bone repositioning techniques. It's one of the most commonly combined procedures in facial surgery — particularly with rhinoplasty, where improving chin projection can enhance the perceived result of nasal refinement without additional nasal surgery.
Dr. Panossian's craniofacial and reconstructive background gives him a three-dimensional understanding of skeletal facial proportions that goes far beyond what's needed for implant placement — he's rebuilt facial frameworks from scratch in his pediatric and reconstructive cases.
Facial implants with Dr. Panossian in Pasadena, CA, offer transformative benefits for individuals seeking to enhance their facial contours and achieve a more balanced appearance:
Chin and cheek implants bring harmony to facial features by adding volume and definition, creating a more balanced and aesthetically pleasing profile.
Implants enhance facial projection by augmenting the chin and cheeks, providing a stronger jawline and more defined cheekbones.
Implants address facial asymmetry by adding volume to areas of deficiency, resulting in a more symmetrical and proportionate appearance.
Chin and cheek implants restore lost volume and firmness associated with aging, rejuvenating the overall facial appearance and providing a more youthful look.
Implants come in various shapes and sizes, allowing for customized treatment tailored to each individual's unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.
Once implanted, chin and cheek implants provide a long-lasting solution for facial enhancement, offering enduring results for years to come.
Chin augmentation may be right for you if you have:
A chin that sits behind the lower lip in profile, making the face look bottom-heavy or undefined.
Uneven jaw contours from developmental differences, trauma, or congenital conditions.
A weak chin can create the illusion of a double chin even at a healthy weight by shortening the cervicomental angle.
Cheek implants can restore midface projection and definition lost to aging or genetics.
During consultation, Dr. Panossian evaluates your facial proportions, discusses your goals, and determines whether an implant, sliding genioplasty (bone repositioning), or injectable approach will achieve the best result.
A solid silicone implant placed through a small incision under the chin or inside the mouth. Provides predictable, permanent augmentation. The most common approach for moderate chin deficiency.
The chin bone itself is cut and repositioned — moved forward, backward, up, down, or any combination. Provides the most versatile correction and uses the patient's own bone. Ideal for significant or complex deficiencies.
Solid implants placed over the cheekbones through incisions inside the mouth. Restores midface projection and definition. Can be combined with chin augmentation for comprehensive lower and midface enhancement.
Both procedures begin with the administration of local or general anesthesia to ensure your comfort throughout the process. For chin implants, Dr. Panossian commonly inserts them through a small incision underneath the chin or from inside the mouth. This technique aims to enhance facial harmony and achieve a more aesthetically pleasing profile.
He may sometimes recommend a "natural" chin augmentation, known as genioplasty, where the chin bone is advanced forward through an incision inside the mouth and anchored in its new position. Dr. Panossian's extensive experience in craniofacial surgery allows him to perform this procedure effectively, yielding spectacular results.
As for cheek implants, Dr. Panossian typically places them through an incision on the inside of the upper lip. He carefully inserts the implants into the desired position through these incisions, ensuring symmetry and natural-looking results. Careful consultation is essential to preserve facial proportions and avoid creating a wide face. Cheek implants offer a more permanent solution for those seeking long-lasting improvement in facial features, eliminating the need for frequent filler injections.
Once the implants are securely in place, the incisions are closed with sutures. Both procedures generally take one to two hours, depending on the case's complexity.
Swelling and mild bruising around the chin and jawline are normal for the first one to two weeks. A soft diet is recommended for the first few days. Discomfort is moderate and well-managed with prescribed medication. Temporary numbness of the lower lip is common and typically resolves within a few weeks.
Most patients return to work within a week. The final contour becomes apparent at two to three months as swelling fully resolves and the implant settles. If a submental (under-chin) incision is used, the scar is hidden in a natural crease and fades well.
Browse Dr. Panossian's chin augmentation results — enhanced facial balance and definition. Click any image to view multiple angles.
Choosing Dr. Panossian for your chin and cheek implants isn't just about enhancing your facial features; it's about entrusting your care to a true expert who understands the emotional significance behind your decision. Dr. Panossian's extensive expertise in craniofacial surgery and his membership in esteemed organizations like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the exclusive American Association of Plastic Surgeons speak volumes about his commitment to excellence.
Whether you're seeking to address insecurities about facial proportions or longing for a more harmonious facial profile, Dr. Panossian's meticulous approach and proven track record ensure that you'll be in capable hands every step of the way.
If you're in Glendale, Pasadena, or the greater Los Angeles area and you're considering facial implants, take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals and reclaiming your confidence — schedule a consultation with Dr. Panossian today.
Fillers provide temporary enhancement (12-18 months) with no downtime — good for patients who want to "test drive" a stronger chin. Implants provide permanent, more significant augmentation with a single procedure. For patients who are confident in their goals, an implant is typically the more cost-effective long-term choice.
Chin implants have an excellent safety record and have been used for decades. They're made of solid silicone (not the same as breast implant material) and don't rupture or leak. Risks include infection, implant shifting, nerve injury, and bone erosion — all uncommon in experienced hands.
Yes — and it frequently should be. The chin and nose exist in a proportional relationship. A weak chin can make a normal nose look large. Often, adding chin projection achieves better facial harmony than additional nasal reduction alone. Dr. Panossian evaluates these proportions during every rhinoplasty consultation.
Yes. Chin implants are completely reversible — they can be removed, replaced, or exchanged for a different size at any time, though this is rarely needed when proper sizing is done during the initial consultation.
During chin or cheek implant surgery, incisions are strategically placed to minimize visible scarring. Over time, any scars that do form tend to fade and become less noticeable, contributing to a more natural appearance.
The average cost of chin or cheek implants starts at $8,500. However, several factors influence pricing, such as the type of implant chosen, the expertise of the performing surgeon, and the individual's overall health.
While chin augmentation is generally safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon, there are inherent risks, including infection, internal bleeding, implant shifting, poor scarring, or adverse reactions to anesthesia. Choosing a board-certified facial plastic surgeon, like Dr. Panossian, can minimize these risks.
Preparing for chin or cheek implant surgery involves thoroughly cleaning the skin to reduce infection risks. Patients should also abstain from alcohol for at least 48 hours before the procedure, get adequate rest, sleep early, and consume light meals the evening before surgery.
Chin or cheek implant surgery is typically performed under local or general anesthesia, ensuring a painless experience during the procedure itself. While some discomfort may be experienced afterward, it can be managed with over-the-counter painkillers and ice packs.
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Panossian to discuss your goals and explore your options. Every journey begins with a conversation.
Request a Consultation