What is Chin Lift Procedure? How is it Done?

What is Chin Lift?

Chin lift, also known as chin augmentation, is a cosmetic procedure aimed at creating a more youthful lower facial profile by correcting sagging chin lines and reducing marionette lines (lines that give a downward sagging unhappy facial expression on both sides of the lips). Chin lift is often performed in conjunction with neck lift liposuction to remove excess fat and reduce double chin.

A defined strong jawline not only enhances one's self-confidence but also increases attractiveness. Chin formation and sagging chin due to factors such as aging, genetic predisposition, and fluctuating weight can make a person appear larger than they are. This issue is aesthetic and can be resolved with chin aesthetics.

The chin area consists of fat and muscle tissue. The muscle structure in this area is one of the muscles responsible for jaw movement. In some individuals, the muscle tissue in this area may sag from a young age. Rapid weight loss, frequent weight fluctuations, and other factors can cause the skin in the chin area to lose its elasticity, making it difficult to tighten. With aging, the youthful skin layer loses its tight appearance, leading to sagging. At this point, chin lift surgery emerges as a solution, aiming to restore lost elasticity, remove excess fat tissue, and create a smooth and defined jawline.

Who is Chin Lift For?

Generally, individuals over the age of 25 who have double chin formation and skin laxity in the chin area are suitable candidates for chin lift/chin augmentation. Chin lift surgery can be performed on individuals with double chin, poor chin line definition, and sagging chin. Individuals considering chin lift surgery are advised to quit smoking, which is known to have a negative impact on the healing process.

Suitable candidates include:

• Individuals who have lost a significant amount of weight and have maintained their weight for at least six to 12 months,
• Those with a "turkey neck" or chin problems,
• Individuals with stubborn regional fat deposits, especially in the neck and chin area, despite diet, physical activity, or even facial yoga,
• Normal-weight individuals with excess chin fat,
• Individuals with a disrupted jawline, where the neck and face lack a distinct jawline separation,
• Non-smokers or those who can quit smoking during the surgical period.

How is Chin Lift Done?

Chin lift (chin fat removal) is performed in a hospital setting under sedation or local anesthesia and takes approximately 20 minutes to 1 hour. Chin lift is the most commonly used procedure in chin reduction surgeries. The procedure can be combined with various facial aesthetic applications. It is possible to use fat tissue removed from the chin area as a filling material for other facial areas.

Chin lift surgery is a fast and easy procedure performed under the chin using micro-cannulas to remove fat tissue in the chin/neck area. Since micro-cannulas are used, the incision sites will be equally minimal. For individuals with excessive chin sagging or multiple neck folds, chin lift surgery is planned in conjunction with neck lift surgery.

Recovery After Chin Lift?

After chin lift surgery with liposuction, as with other liposuction applications, the use of a bandage will be necessary. It is recommended to wear a special bandage that covers the head and chin area, especially during the first week.

Post-chin reduction, the pain can be managed with painkillers recommended by your doctor. Swelling and bruising are expected side effects and usually completely resolve within the first week. Return to work and daily activities can be achieved within 3-4 days after the procedure. It is recommended to wait 10 days to return to normal activities.

If chin lift surgery is performed using the liposuction method, the likelihood of scarring is very low. Since stitches are not placed in the entry points of the cannulas after chin lift surgery with liposuction, there is no risk of stitch marks.

What are the Risks and Possible Side Effects of Chin Lift? Mild side effects such as swelling, bruising, and pain are common in the first week after chin lift surgery. However, it is important to inform your doctor of any complaints such as these lasting longer than a week. The risks and possible side effects of chin lift are limited to whether the liposuction procedure is performed correctly and the risks associated with liposuction.

Possible complications associated with liposuction include:

• Contour irregularities (a condition that can occur with incorrect fat absorption, but such a problem is not experienced in the hands of expert doctors),
• Uneven skin surface or a wavy-pale appearance due to poor skin elasticity or unusual healing,
• Permanent or temporary damage under the skin due to liposuction cannulas (speckled skin appearance),
• Bleeding under the skin (hematoma),
• Seroma (temporary fluid accumulation under the skin),
• Numbness (temporary or permanent numbness in the application area),
• Infection (rare but possible),
• Fat embolism.