Putting Our Best Chin Forward

 

One of the newest things to hit the market is the FDA approval of Juvéderm Voluma, a dermal filler for chin augmentation. Dermal fillers are gellike substances injected beneath the skin to restore lost volume, smooth facial lines, soften creases or enhance facial contours. More than one million men and women annually have chosen this popular facial rejuvenation treatment, which can be a cost-effective way to look younger without surgery or downtime.

As a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, it is important for me to stay up to date on the newest technology and advancements. It is also essential to make sure that they are safe and being utilized correctly.

Juvéderm Voluma has been on the market for years, and it is one of my favorite products to inject, particularly into the cheeks. Depending on the patient’s anatomy and placement, it can help a patient achieve a lifted, rested, more youthful appearance. With my younger patients who lack definition and could use a more contoured defined look, it is an excellent product that can last up to 24 months.

Now that it’s FDA approved for use in the chin for jawline contouring, it has increased its range and versatility. It’s great for patients who have always felt like they have a weaker chin or jawline and would like to see what more definition can do for them without making a permanent decision. For my more mature patients who have issues with excess skin under the neck or jowls, adding projection and definition to chin/ jawline can help improve proportions and disguise these areas.

At my office, I have the Canfield Vectra 3D imaging system that can simulate chin augmentation. It is very comforting for patients to see simulated results before making the changes on themselves. The risk-benefit ratio is always discussed, and the array of options from permanent surgical augmentation with an implant versus filler injection are always reviewed.

Having every option presented in one sitting is one of the benefits of seeking a board-certified facial plastic surgeon. We have several skill sets available to offer patients, so we are more adept at meeting patients’ needs.

For example, this beautiful patient in her 30s (Fig. 1) underwent filler placement in her chin and cheeks. She was able to achieve improved volume and proportions leading to subtle natural overall improvement.

This patient in her late 40s (Fig. 2) was concerned about loss of definition due to excess skin in her neck, which is a common early sign of aging. Through filler placement in her chin and jawline, the increased chin projection achieves improved jawline contour and the appearance of her neck, leading to an overall more youthful and rested appearance.

This beautiful patient in her 50s (see fig. 3), underwent filler placement in her cheeks, chin and jawline to help improve the appearance of her jowls. She was able to achieve a near-surgical result. In the hands of a trained physician, filler is extremely safe and versatile. She appears natural, rested and more youthful, all achieved in one 30-minute office visit. Her results should last 12-24 months.

Overall, Juvéderm Voluma FDA approval for use in the chin is a very fun and versatile advancement in the non-invasive cosmetic industry that is beneficial to patients of all age ranges and anatomical concerns.

Dr. Lindsey Pennington, M.D. is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, and she is the only solo private practice female facial plastic surgeon in the state of Louisiana. Her office is located on 6030 Line Ave., Suite 110 in Shreveport LA. Dr. Pennington is highly specialized in facial procedures and surgery. She offers a full array of services from non-invasive injections of Botox and dermal fillers such as Juvéderm to more in-depth surgical procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose job), blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) and rhytidectomy (facelifts). All cosmetic consults are complimentary. If you have questions, or would like custom recommendations, please call our office at 318-216-5366 or email us at info@penningtonfacialplastics.com. Dr. Pennington’s practice page can be found on social media featuring before and after photos, procedure demonstrations and office specials: Facebook or Instagram @ penningtonfacialplastics.