Fast facts

Chin implant


What it is: a chin implant is a cosmetic surgery procedure during which the surgeon selects a specially sized implant to augment the patient's facial profile. An incision is made in the mouth or under the chin, and the implant is placed in a pocket in front of the jawbone. 


What it addresses:  Facial imbalance or asymmetry due to:

- Disproportionate chin
- Jaw droop


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Question

Is it normal for the lower lip to feel numb weeks after chin implant?

I had a chin implant 4 weeks ago and my lower lip is still numb. Also, I can't speak, eat, or smile as I did before, and the smile is really unattractive. When will I gain feeling back in my lower lip? There is also a dimple that appears in my chin as I speak. Is that temporary as well?


Asked by: kathym
48187

Answers (1)

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1
November 6, 2008

It may take several months to recover

Kathy,

There are two nerves that give sensation coming out of your mandible close to where the chin implant is placed. There are another two nerves that make the muscles move around your mouth that cross over near where the chin implant is placed. In some cases, there may be a transitory period of numbness or weakness if the nerves were stretched during the placement of the implant. If there was considerable stretching, and the nerve or nerves suffered considerable injury, it may take months to recover. In an even smaller percentage of people, there may be permanent nerve damage. However, at this point only 4 weeks out from surgery, don't get too worried. However, you should discuss your concerns with your surgeon.

I hope this is helpful.

David Shafer, MD
Shafer Plastic Surgery
New York City

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