Chin Implant Surgery
If you feel self-conscious about a weak or recessed chin, a chin implant can provide a natural-looking enhancement that brings your facial features into harmony. Dr. Michael A. Pasquale is a board-certified plastic surgeon in Honolulu on the island of Oahu, with over 30 years of experience helping patients achieve more balanced profiles. Chin augmentation (chin implant surgery), also known as [mentoplasty](/mentoplasty/) or genioplasty in medical terms, involves placing a shaped implant to strengthen a weak chin and improve the jawline. The result is a more defined chin that complements your nose and face, creating better overall proportions. At our practice, every chin implant procedure is customized to your unique facial structure for results that look like you – only more confident.
Under the expert care of Dr. Pasquale – an NYU fellowship-trained surgeon who specializes in facial implants – you can expect a safe procedure and refined outcome. We operate in an in-house, accredited surgical center, ensuring the highest standards of safety and comfort. From your initial consultation through recovery, our team’s focus is on providing a positive experience and **natural-looking** result. You’ll be in the hands of a trusted surgeon who has been serving Hawaii for decades.
Dr. Pasquale: Board-certified, NYU-trained, with 30+ years of experience in Hawaii.
What Is Chin Implant Surgery?
Chin implant surgery (chin augmentation surgery) is a form of facial plastic surgery that enhances the size and shape of a small chin. Also known as chin augmentation or [mentoplasty](/mentoplasty/), the procedure typically involves placing a biocompatible implant over the chin bone to create a stronger, more balanced profile. This surgical chin enhancement refines the contour of the chin, jawline, and neck for improved facial harmony. Unlike a bony [genioplasty](/genioplasty/) that involves cutting and moving the jaw bone, chin implant augmentation adds volume with an implant to build out a recessed chin. The implant provides a **permanent** solution for a weak chin, offering lasting improvement in your facial balance.
Benefits of Chin Augmentation
For the right candidate, chin augmentation offers numerous aesthetic benefits and can even boost your self-confidence. By addressing a small or receding chin, a chin implant brings the face into better proportion. In fact, a well-defined chin and jawline can dramatically improve your overall profile and facial harmony. Many patients also find that they feel more self-assured after healing and seeing their improved look.
- Balanced facial proportions – Brings a receding or underdeveloped chin into better alignment with your other features (especially the nose).
- Stronger jawline definition – Adds contour and strength to the chin and jaw region, creating a sharper, more sculpted jawline.
- Corrects a “weak” chin – Dramatically improves a weak or recessed chin, enhancing the side profile and chin projection.
- Improved neck-chin angle – Augmenting a small chin can reduce the appearance of a double chin or “soft” jawline by better defining the angle between the chin and neck.
- Permanent results – The implant provides a lasting enhancement (unlike temporary dermal fillers), so you won’t need repeated treatments.
- Enhanced confidence – Many patients experience a boost in self-esteem and feel more attractive and confident with a balanced, well-defined profile.
We design chin enhancements that look natural – enhancing your features without an “overdone” look.
Who Is a Good Candidate for a Chin Implant?
Adults who are unhappy with the appearance of a small chin or weak jawline may be good candidates for chin implant surgery. You may be an ideal candidate if you:
- Have a weak, recessed, or under-projected chin that makes your face appear unbalanced.
- Desire a more defined chin and jawline to improve your facial profile.
- Are in good overall health without uncontrolled medical conditions that could impair healing.
- Do not smoke, or are willing to quit smoking before and during the healing process (smoking can interfere with recovery).
- Have realistic expectations and understand what chin augmentation can and cannot change.
Chin implant surgery is typically performed on adults after the chin and jaw have finished developing (usually post-18 years old). This procedure can benefit both men and women seeking improved facial balance. If you have a significantly receded chin due to jawbone structure or a bite misalignment, Dr. Pasquale will evaluate whether a chin implant alone is sufficient or if additional treatments (such as orthodontics or jaw surgery) might be recommended. In severe cases of jaw retrusion, a surgical jaw advancement or genioplasty might be considered, but for most patients with mild to moderate chin recession, an implant offers an effective solution. Dr. Pasquale will assess your unique facial anatomy and guide you to the most appropriate option.
Personal Consultation & Custom Planning
A one-on-one consultation with Dr. Pasquale is the first step in planning your chin augmentation. During this visit, Dr. Pasquale will examine your facial structure, profile, and chin proportions, and he will discuss your goals in detail. To determine the proper implant size and shape, he will take precise measurements of your chin and jaw and may review photographs or digital imaging with you. You are encouraged to share your aesthetic concerns and even bring inspiration images of chins or profiles you like – this helps ensure your expectations are understood and achievable.
Using the information from your exam and discussion, Dr. Pasquale will recommend an implant that best suits your needs. In some cases, the implant can be custom designed or sculpted for an ideal fit to your anatomy. Factors like your gender, face shape, and nose-chin-neck balance are all considered in creating a tailored surgical plan. Dr. Pasquale’s personalized approach means that whether you want a subtle refinement or a more dramatic change, your chin implant will be planned to complement your features. If appropriate, he may also discuss combining your chin augmentation with other procedures (for example, rhinoplasty or neck contouring) as part of an overall [jawline enhancement](/jawline-enhancement/) strategy to achieve the best facial harmony.
The Chin Implant Procedure
Chin implant surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis in our accredited surgical center, meaning you go home the same day. The procedure itself usually takes about an hour. For your comfort, you will receive anesthesia – Dr. Pasquale may use general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on what’s most appropriate for you. During the surgery, a small incision is made either just under the chin (in the natural crease) or inside the mouth, hidden behind the lower lip. Through this incision, Dr. Pasquale creates a precise pocket over the front of the chin bone (mandible) where the implant will sit.
Implant Placement & Technique
Once the pocket is prepared, the selected implant (commonly a solid silicone implant) is carefully inserted and positioned against your chin bone. Dr. Pasquale ensures the implant is centered and sits securely to achieve a natural contour. In some cases, a small suture or surgical screw may be used to help fix the implant in place, though often the custom-fit pocket holds it firmly without need for fixation. After placement, the incision is closed with fine sutures. If the incision was made under the chin, the external stitches will be removed in about a week; for an internal incision, dissolvable sutures will disappear on their own. A small bandage or steri-strips may be applied to the chin to protect the area and provide support as it begins to heal.
Chin augmentation is a relatively straightforward procedure, and you will be able to go home after a short monitoring period once you awaken fully from anesthesia. You’ll need a friend or family member to drive you and stay with you the first night. Before you leave, Dr. Pasquale will review initial recovery instructions with your caretaker to ensure you’re set for a smooth healing process.
Types of Chin Implants
Chin implants come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, allowing Dr. Pasquale to select the ideal implant for your specific goals. The most commonly used option is a solid silicone implant. These silicone chin implants are made of a safe, flexible medical-grade silicone that feels very much like natural bone once in place. Silicone implants are popular because they are durable, easily contoured, and have a long track record of safety in chin augmentation. Other implant materials include porous polyethylene (Medpor) and PTFE (Gore-Tex) implants, which some patients or surgeons may consider for particular situations – though silicone remains the gold standard due to its combination of safety and ease of use. Dr. Pasquale will explain the pros and cons of each implant type if alternatives are being considered, and he will recommend the implant that best fits your anatomy and desired outcome. *(For more details on implant options, see our [chin implant types](/chin-implant-types/) page.)*
Custom Chin Implants
For patients with unique anatomy or very specific aesthetic goals, a custom chin implant can be created to achieve a truly personalized result. Custom implants are individually designed using advanced techniques such as 3D imaging or molds of your chin and jaw. This process allows for a chin implant that is tailored to the exact dimensions and contours that will best enhance your face. Custom chin implants are often beneficial in cases of significant facial asymmetry, congenital chin deformities, or revision surgeries, as well as for anyone desiring a highly specific change that off-the-shelf implants might not perfectly accomplish. Drawing on his specialized experience in facial implant design, Dr. Pasquale works with implant manufacturers to fabricate a chin implant that will fit you like a puzzle piece – resulting in a refined chin that complements your facial structure perfectly. While custom implants involve additional planning (and cost) compared to standard implants, they can provide an unparalleled level of precision in chin augmentation.
Chin Implants for Men vs. Women
The fundamental surgical approach to placing a chin implant is similar for male and female patients; however, the aesthetic goals and implant selection often differ. Dr. Pasquale understands the subtle but important distinctions in male versus female facial aesthetics, and he tailors each chin augmentation to produce results that suit the patient’s gender and individual ideals.
Male Chin Implants
Men frequently seek chin augmentation to attain a stronger, more chiseled jawline and to give the face a more masculine profile. A [male chin implant](/male-chin-implant/) is typically chosen to add width, height, and prominence to the chin. This creates sharper definition along the jaw and a robust chin that conveys strength. Dr. Pasquale will often select a broader or more angular implant shape for male patients to enhance the jaw’s angularity or to square the chin as desired. The goal is a natural-looking yet noticeably stronger chin and jawline that still fits the rest of the face. (In fact, many male patients get chin implants to help create a more defined, masculine jawline). Through careful planning, Dr. Pasquale ensures that the augmented chin looks proportional with other male features such as the brow, nose, and Adam’s apple.
Female Chin Implants
Women who choose chin augmentation usually desire a balanced, refined improvement that enhances their femininity without making the face look “too square” or heavy. A [female chin implant](/female-chin-implant/) is often selected to subtly increase the chin’s projection (how far it sticks out) rather than significantly widening it. This helps bring the chin into harmony with the nose, lips, and rest of the face. Dr. Pasquale focuses on maintaining soft, smooth contours for female chins – for example, adding just enough length or forward projection to sharpen the profile and improve the neck-chin angle, while avoiding an overly broad look. The result is a more proportionate lower face that still looks delicate and distinctly feminine. *Experts note that female patients tend to seek chin augmentation to balance facial aesthetics, focusing on forward projection, whereas male patients more often seek added width. With Dr. Pasquale’s approach, the enhanced female chin appears natural for her face and brings a new sense of harmony to her features.
Comprehensive Jawline Enhancement
A chin implant alone can greatly improve the definition of your jawline and neck. By correcting a “weak” chin, the jawline often appears sharper and the profile more youthful. For those looking for an even more dramatic enhancement, chin augmentation can be combined with other procedures as part of a comprehensive jawline improvement plan. Many patients choose to pair their chin implant with neck liposuction to remove excess fat under the chin, which further accentuates the jawline. Others might combine chin augmentation with a neck lift to tighten sagging skin, or with jaw angle implants to widen the lower face. Additionally, it’s common to perform chin augmentation alongside rhinoplasty (nose surgery) to balance the facial profile (for example, a moderate nose hump can seem more pronounced if the chin is very small, so addressing both can yield optimal symmetry). Dr. Pasquale will advise you on any complementary procedures that could help achieve your goals. Thanks to his extensive experience in facial surgery, he can safely coordinate combined procedures in one surgical session when appropriate. The result of a well-planned combination is often a truly transformative yet natural-looking improvement in the entire jaw-neck region.
Recovery After Chin Implant Surgery
Recovery from chin implant surgery is typically straightforward, and Dr. Pasquale will closely guide you through each step. Immediately after the procedure, your chin area will be bandaged and you’ll spend some time in our recovery area before going home. It’s normal to experience swelling, tightness, and minor bruising around the chin and jaw for the first several days. Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and is managed with prescribed pain medications. You may also feel some temporary numbness or stiffness in the chin, especially if an internal incision was used, but this will improve as you heal. Dr. Pasquale will provide you with detailed [post-operative instructions](/post-op-instructions-chin-implant/) on how to care for the incision, oral hygiene (if you have stitches inside the mouth), dietary tips, and activity restrictions.
Most patients find that they can return to desk work or school about 5 to 7 days after chin augmentation, once initial swelling and soreness have subsided to a comfortable level. Strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and contact sports will need to be avoided for a few weeks to protect the implant as you heal. Below is a general recovery timeline to illustrate what you can expect after a chin implant:
| Time After Surgery | Recovery Milestones & What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 – 2 | Chin and lower face will feel numb, tight, and swollen. You’ll have a bandage or surgical tape on the chin. Pain is moderate on the first day but improves with medication. A liquid or soft diet is recommended especially if you have an intraoral incision, to avoid irritating the stitches. |
| First Week | Swelling usually peaks by day 2-3, then gradually decreases. You may experience some bruising on the chin or upper neck. By the end of the first week, you’ll start to see the new chin contour emerging as swelling goes down. Any external sutures will be removed at ~7 days. Many patients feel comfortable returning to desk work and light activities by the 5-7 day mark. |
| Weeks 2 – 3 | Swelling and bruising significantly improve. You can resume most normal daily activities, but still avoid strenuous exercise or contact sports. The chin area might remain slightly swollen or firm to the touch, and subtle numbness can persist – this is normal and continuing to resolve. By the end of week 3, you’ll have a good idea of the improved facial balance when looking in the mirror. |
| Weeks 4 – 6 | Any residual swelling is usually minor. You may gradually resume more intense exercise around 4-6 weeks, with Dr. Pasquale’s clearance. The implant is healing in place and feels more and more like part of your own chin. Numbness, if present, is almost completely gone by this stage. You can fully appreciate the enhanced chin and sharper jawline in proportion with your face. |
| 3 – 6 Months | Final results are apparent as all tissues have fully healed and softened around the implant. The small scar under the chin (if you had an external incision) continues to fade and is often barely visible. By now, you should be back to all normal activities, including contact sports, without restrictions. Your new chin contour is now a seamless part of your facial appearance. |
Everyone’s healing process is a little different, but Dr. Pasquale and our team will monitor your recovery to make sure you’re healing well. We schedule routine follow-up appointments – typically one week, one month, and a few months post-surgery – to check your progress. For a more detailed breakdown of each stage of healing, you can also refer to our [Chin Implant Recovery Timeline](/chin-implant-recovery-timeline/) page. By following your personalized post-op instructions and attending your follow-ups, you’ll greatly help to ensure a smooth recovery and the best possible result.
We’re here for you at every step – Dr. Pasquale and our team provide thorough support throughout your chin implant recovery.
Risks & Safety Considerations
Chin implant surgery is very safe when performed by an experienced surgeon like Dr. Pasquale, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks and complications. These are uncommon, but can include issues such as bleeding (hematoma), infection, prolonged swelling, changes in sensation (temporary numbness of the lower lip or chin), or malposition/shifting of the implant. Dr. Pasquale takes extensive precautions to minimize risks: he performs your surgery in a fully accredited operating facility with strict sterile technique, and uses meticulous surgical methods to avoid nerve injury and properly secure the implant in the precise pocket. As with any implant, there is a very small chance the body could form excess scar tissue or that the implant could shift or be rejected, possibly requiring a corrective procedure. However, such occurrences are rare, especially under the care of a highly qualified surgeon. Scarring is minimal – the external incision under the chin typically heals as a thin, easily concealable line, and if the incision is inside the mouth, there is no visible scar. Dr. Pasquale will thoroughly review all potential risks with you during your consultation and provide you with detailed instructions to follow during recovery. By adhering to these guidelines and reporting any concerns promptly, you can further ensure your safety. Our practice is committed to patient safety at every step – from pre-operative screening to post-operative care – so you can feel confident that you’re in good hands.
Chin Implant Cost in Hawaii
Understandably, cost is a common question when considering chin augmentation. The **cost of a chin implant in Hawaii** will depend on the specifics of your surgical plan. Factors that influence the price include the complexity of your case, the type of implant (standard vs. custom), anesthesia fees, and facility fees. If you combine your chin implant with another procedure (such as a neck lift or rhinoplasty), this will also affect the overall cost. During your consultation, we will provide a personalized price quote that breaks down all the fees, so you know exactly what to expect. We strive to offer exceptional value and will never cut corners on your care or safety.
While insurance typically does not cover elective chin augmentation (since it’s a cosmetic procedure), we do offer financing options and payment plans to help make your **chin augmentation surgery** as affordable as possible. Our office can assist you in exploring these options. We believe in transparency, and we’re happy to answer any cost-related questions you have so you can make an informed decision.
Chin Implant Results & Before/After Photos
Once healing is complete, a chin implant can provide a lifelong improvement to your facial profile. Patients are often amazed at how such a small device can make a big difference in their appearance – from enhancing the definition of the jawline to bringing better balance between the chin and nose. The goal, as always, is a result that appears natural. Your friends and family might notice you “look great” without guessing you had surgery, because your enhanced chin will suit your face. Immediately after surgery, you will see a change in your chin projection, though swelling will mask the final result. Over the following weeks, as swelling subsides, the outcome improves day by day. By a few months post-op, the vast majority of swelling is gone and your chin looks refined and normal – just better aligned with your other features. The incision (if under the chin) fades significantly with time and is usually hard to spot.
We encourage anyone considering this procedure to view our chin implant photo gallery. There, you can see the results achieved by real patients of Dr. Pasquale. These photos demonstrate how chin augmentation can strengthen a weak chin and improve facial balance in a variety of individuals. When browsing the gallery, note how each result still looks natural for that person – this is a testament to Dr. Pasquale’s philosophy of creating enhancements that harmonize with a patient’s face. Keep in mind that individual results will vary based on your starting anatomy and desired changes, but seeing others’ outcomes can help set realistic expectations. Dr. Pasquale will also show you relevant before-and-after examples during your consultation and discuss what kind of improvement you can personally anticipate.
Why Choose Dr. Pasquale for Your Chin Implant?
Choosing the right surgeon is critical to the success of your chin implant surgery. Dr. Michael A. Pasquale stands out as one of Hawaii’s **best chin implant surgeons**, thanks to his extraordinary credentials and dedication to patient satisfaction. Here are a few reasons why patients trust Dr. Pasquale for their chin augmentation:
- Unmatched Experience: Dr. Pasquale has over 30 years of cosmetic and reconstructive surgery experience in Hawaii. He has performed numerous facial implant procedures and specializes in chin and jawline contouring. This depth of experience means skilled hands and seasoned judgment guiding your care.
- Board-Certified & Fellowship-Trained: He is a board-certified plastic surgeon who completed advanced fellowship training at NYU. His training and continuous education ensure he stays at the forefront of surgical techniques and patient safety. You can have peace of mind knowing your surgeon has world-class qualifications.
- Artistic Eye for Natural Results: Dr. Pasquale is known for achieving natural-looking enhancements. He carefully analyzes your facial structure to determine how a chin implant can improve your profile without looking artificial. The outcome is a refined, balanced chin that flatters your face – often, even dentists or other surgeons have commented on the aesthetic excellence of his implant placements.
- State-of-the-Art Surgical Facility: Procedures are performed in Dr. Pasquale’s own fully accredited in-house surgical center. This means you get hospital-grade safety and technology in a private, comfortable environment. Our operating suite meets the highest standards for sterility and emergency readiness (though emergencies are exceedingly rare). Having an on-site OR also offers you convenience and discretion.
- Comprehensive, Compassionate Care: From your first consultation to your final follow-up, Dr. Pasquale and his staff provide attentive, personalized care. He believes in honest communication – he’ll tell you candidly what chin augmentation can achieve for you. Our team supports you through every step, ensuring you feel informed and cared for. Patient testimonials often mention how comfortable and confident they felt with Dr. Pasquale’s guidance.
Over the decades, Dr. Pasquale has built a reputation as a surgeon patients can trust with their appearance. He has lectured internationally and even taught other surgeons, yet his greatest pride is the happiness of his patients here in Hawaii. When you choose Dr. Pasquale for your chin implant, you are choosing a surgeon who truly cares about your results and well-being. Our entire team is dedicated to making your cosmetic journey a positive one, from the moment you walk into our clinic to the final reveal of your new profile.
Schedule Your Chin Implant Consultation
If you’re ready to take the next step toward a more defined chin and confident profile, we’re here to help. **All initial consultations are complimentary.** Meeting with Dr. Pasquale is the best way to get personalized answers to your questions and learn how chin augmentation can benefit you. During your consultation, Dr. Pasquale will evaluate your features and craft a treatment plan tailored to your goals. You’ll have plenty of time to discuss what you hope to achieve and to have all your questions answered.
Contact our Honolulu office today at (808) 945-5433 or request an appointment online to get started. We welcome patients from Oahu and all across Hawaii. If you’re considering a chin implant in Hawaii, trust your face to a true expert. Let Dr. Pasquale and our friendly team guide you through the journey to a more balanced profile – we look forward to helping you achieve the look you’ve always wanted.
