Chin Augmentation on the Rise

Because fillers cost less up front, they may be an attractive option for patients who desire chin augmentation but want to control costs. But patients who desire permanent chin augmentation may be better served with chin implantation. “Fillers are not particularly cost-effective,” Dr. Spiegel said. “A chin implant is going to have a higher up-front cost but a much lower cost overall.”

The Future of Chin Augmentation

“There is no doubt that interest in chin implants will continue to grow,” said Dr. Dayan. Job searching in the floundering economy, increased use of videoconferencing and a cultural emphasis on youth are predicted to drive continued interest in chin augmentation. “Finding a job is very competitive today. Everyone is looking for some kind of advantage,” Dr. Shin said.

Advances in technology may eventually improve facial plastic surgeons’ ability to enhance the chin. Dr. Dayan believes that permanent fillers may someday have a role in chin augmentation and that chemical agents may eventually be used to remove under-chin fat to enhance the jaw line.

Patients will always be best served by an individualized approach, however. “I think the long-term future for chin augmentation will be customizing all implants specifically for each patient’s face,” Dr. Funk said.