As you may already know, rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure which is used to correct malformations of the nose, often for deviated septum or a broken nose not healing correctly.

However, you may not be aware that many patients who undergo rhinoplasty procedures can also greatly benefit from a chin augmentation. And, the best news is that these two procedures can be combined and performed all on the same day by your plastic surgeon.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is major surgery which corrects malformations of the nose to help improve the facial appearance of the patient and improve breathing function. This and breast augmentation are two of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures performed in the United States today.

Also, more commonly referred to as a "nose job," this procedure is performed by plastic surgeons across the U.S. in response to the increasing demand from men and women.

What is Chin Augmentation?

Chin augmentation surgery consists of an implant being placed to help correct underdevelopment of the natural jawline. The implant is used to help create a more prominent chin in those born with a weaker jawline.

Why Are These Combined?

Often patients needing rhinoplasty also have small chins. Or the new nose makes an average chin appear smaller in proportion. And a small chin makes the nose appear larger than it really is.

However, when a nose job is performed it only fixes the issues of the nose structure and not the issues associated with the weak chin. By combining the two procedures, your plastic surgeon can fix your nose and use an implant on the jawline to help balance out the look of your face.

Generally, patients who undergo both procedures are happier with their overall post-surgical results than those who choose one procedure over the other.

How are the Procedures Performed?

Both can be performed on an out-patient basis. You will be given general anesthesia and can plan on being in surgery for a little more than two hours.

Generally, the chin implant will be done first before the rhinoplasty. A small incision is made on the jawline and the implant is installed by securing it with small titanium screws into the jaw bone.

The rhinoplasty is started by making an incision in the columella tissue of the nose. The columella tissue is located between the nostrils. The bump on the nose is then removed by using a hand rasp or power rasp, depending on the severity of the deformity.

Following this, the nasal bones are broken and repositioned into their proper place. Once completed, the nose it placed in a cast.

The Recovery

You can expect at least five days of healing. At this point, the casting will be removed and the nose will completely heal over time.

If you are considering having rhinoplasty, chin augmentation, or a combination of both procedures, it is advisable that you contact a Board Certified plastic surgeon in your area to schedule a consultation with. The plastic surgeon can then answer all of your questions and concerns.