Chin Implant Removal

Chin implants are the most commonly inserted facial implants. Some of the older chin implants were soft and resembled breast implants with their associated risks of mechanical complication such as rupture or leaks. The new generation of chin implants are solid and have a far fewer rate of mechanical complications. Chin augmentation of a chin implant procedure is a perfect adjunct to a nose surgery or rhinoplasty procedure in those who have a recessive or small chin. Some of the causes leading to chin implant removal are highlighted below.

Shifting
A chin implant may shift either immediately of sometime after insertion. Such shifting may lead to an implant which is too high on the chin or too low. It can even move slightly from one side to the other leading to an asymmetrical or uneven chin. If significant, the chin implant can be removed and replaced if so desired.

Infection
Though rare, infection of a chin implant can occur. If the chin implant is inserted through an incision inside the mouth, there is a slightly higher infection rate relative to placing the chin implant through an incision under the chin. Mild infections can be treated by antibiotics. More severe infections will necessitate removal of the chin implant will possible revision once the infection has fully resolved.

Asymmetry
Shifting of the chin implant can lead to unevenness or asymmetry of the chin. If some chin asymmetry exists prior to chin augmentation, the chin implant can actually worsen the asymmetry. In such cases, the implant can be removed and reinserted if so desired.

Nerve compression
Occasionally the chin implant can compress the mental nerve which is the nerve responsible for sensory innervation to the chin and lower lip. Once diagnosed, the chin implant may have to be removed to releave the pressure on the sensory nerve. Adjusting the chin implant to move it away from the nerve may also treat the problem.

Bone resorption
Our bones are always remodeling in response to stress. Constant micromovement where it is not firmly fixed in place can lead to resorption of the mandible or jaw bone. In severe cases of bone resorption after chin augmentation, chin implants can lead to tooth loss or deformities of the mandible. Removal of the chin implant is necessary to halt the prosorption in such extreme cases of bone resorption.

Extrusion
After the chin implant is placed in its pocket in front of the mandible, it can shift in position causing to partially extrude out of the body. Wound healing problem after a chin augmentation procedure may also lead to implant extrusion and require removal of the implant.

Personal dissatisfaction
Whether the chin implant is too small, excessively large, or not the ideal shape for your particular needs, it can be removed. After most of the inflammation has resolved from a chin augmentation procedure, timely removal of an unwanted chin implant is important. To receive more assistance in making your informed decision, please schedule a consultation with our office in order to discuss your particular concerns and rationale for removing your chin implant.