What is chin reconstruction?

 

Chin reconstruction, also known as chin augmentation or chin reshaping, is performed using HA (hyaluronic acid) fillers as a non-invasive alternative to chin surgery. Chin reconstruction is ideal whether you are concerned about having a retracted chin, double chin, a pointed witch’s chin, jowls or a sagging jawline.

 

The body produces desoxycholan-acid; a bile acid which is made in the liver and helps the digestion of fat. The Aqualyx® solution contains this bile acid and its fat dissolving properties are used in this treatment.

 

HA injectable fillers are a popular option at the Urban Aesthetix Clinic for chin augmentation. The hyaluronic acid used, which naturally occurs in our skin, comes from a non-animal source. Hyaluronic acid is vital for the skin’s general moisture and helping maintain its elasticity, tone and appearance. HA chin fillers are therefore biocompatible and biodegradable; they are clinically approved and have been safely used for years worldwide.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Why consider chin reconstruction?

HA fillers can add volume and improve facial contours to create a natural looking reshaped chin and improve the profile:

 

  • Sagging jawline (Pre-jowl sulcus): to volumise the cavity at the side of the chin
  • Retracted chin: to create a beautifully shaped chin and give proportion back to the face
  • Double chin: to redefine the jawline to help eliminate a double chin or turkey neck
  • Dimpled chin: to eliminate the appearance of a witch’s chin
  • Jowls: to tighten and contour the neck line and jaw line
  • Sagging chin: to create a more youthful-looking jawline.

What does chin reconstruction treatment involve?

Treatment is simple and safe if carried out by an experienced and fully qualified clinician, such as Dr Unnati Desai, following a detailed consultation to examine the area to treat and decide on the best HA filler for you.

 

Before carrying out the treatment, Dr Unnati may administer a topical local anaesthetic cream or anaesthetic injection (nerve block) for a comfortable and pain free treatment. Some HA fillers have a built-in anaesthetic.

 

Hyaluronic acid filler is injected deep onto the bone and into the subcutaneous tissues using either a needle or a blunt cannula. The treatment can take 30 – 45 minutes and you can resume most normal daily activities immediately afterwards.

How soon should you notice a difference?

Results are noticeable immediately.

How long does chin reconstruction treatment last?

Chin reconstruction treatment will last between 12 – 24 months depending on which HA filler is used. Dr Unnati will advise you at your consultation.

 

The length of time also depends on a number of factors such as your age, smoking status, sun exposure, lifestyle and your general skin structure.

Points to consider

Any clinical procedure carries a risk of complications, which is why it is always highly advisable to have cosmetic treatments safely performed by a doctor. Dr Unnati is a GP and specialist Non-Surgical Aesthetic Physician, trained in dermatology and medical cosmetics.

 

The Urban Aesthetix Clinic follows strict guidelines in making patients fully aware of any possible cautions and complications, and in offering post treatment advice. Dr Unnati will undertake a full consultation before any new treatment can be given.

Are there any side effects to HA fillers?

The short-lived side effects associated with the process include bleeding, swelling, tenderness and redness which settle within a few hours, and bruising which settles within a few days. A blunt cannula carries less risk of bleeding/ bruising than a needle.

 

There is a minimal risk of infection as the needle breaks the natural barrier to infection when creating a small wound in the skin. Please therefore avoid touching the area or using any unsterile make-up for 6 hours after treatment, although mineral make-up or sterile medical make up can be used immediately. You may experience some itching and discolouration at the site of treatment which should settle within a few days.

 

Rarer complications include the formation of a small cyst, granuloma or nodule in the treated area which is generally due to an immunological reaction, and will either eventually settle spontaneously after a prolonged period or may require treatment. Extremely rare complications include interruption to the blood supply, which can result in longterm complications.

 

If you’re an overseas patient, advance booking is highly recommended in case a course of treatments is required.

When should HA fillers not be used/be used with caution?

  • While pregnant or breast feeding
  • If you are highly sensitive/ allergic to ingredients in the compound
  • After recent use with Roaccutane in the last 12 months
  • After treatment with permanent fillers or implants
  • If you have a tendency to keloid or hypertrophic scarring
  • With certain medical conditions: auto-immune disorders/ skin cancer/ angina/diabetes/ epilepsy/ hepatitis/Immunocompromised conditions/bleeding disorders
  • In combination with certain medications: anticoagulants/aspirin/anti-inflammatories/ steroids
  • If the areas to be treated are inflamed or infected