Chin Dimpling
Also known as cobble-stone or golf ball chin the dimpling is caused by an overactive muscle in the chin called the mentalis. This happens due to ageing and resulting volume loss which makes the underlying muscle more obvious. Associated with this can be the development of a chin crease. The dimpling becomes obvious when the the muscle contracts during talking or eating. In some people the dimples become visible even at rest when the muscle is not contracting. Chin dimpling can be treated with dermal filler and wrinkle-relaxing injection.
How is this achieved?
Dermal filler is placed over the dimpling leading to an instant softening and smooth appearance. Results are natural looking and long-lasting.
The mentalis muscle can also be treated using wrinkle-relaxing injections. Often only 2 injections are needed making this a very well tolerated procedure.
How long does the treatment take?
For dermal filler, 1 hour is allocated to the procedure. Time is spent in the appointment carefully cleaning and disinfecting the skin and for clinical photographs to be taken.
Wrinkle-relaxing injections should take no longer than 5-10minutes. After cleaning the skin, the area to be injected is marked and 2 injections are placed using a very fine needle in the desired area.
Does it hurt?
Numbing cream is applied for 15 minutes prior to the procedure and the filler itself also contains a local anaesthetic making this a well-tolerated treatment. There can sometimes be a tight or uncomfortable sensation once the procedure has been carried out but this usually settles by itself.
Wrinkle-relaxing injections may sting a little but any discomfort is very short-lived as the treatment is quick and well tolerated. Numbing cream is not needed.
When will I see results?
Results are instant and there is further improvement over a four-week period as the dermal filler integrates into the chin. It is important to note that there can be some mild swelling and this can take a few days to settle completely.
With wrinkle-relaxing injections, most patients start to see results by Day 5 and it takes two weeks for the final results to appear.
How long does the treatment last?
With dermal fillers results usually last 1-2 years if not longer. Over time the filler gradually breaks down and the result will fade. At this point the treatment can be repeated.
The results with anti-wrinkle injections last on average 3-4 months. In some patients it could be sooner and in others longer.
What are the side-effects?
These are usually mild. Swelling can occur and as with all dermal fillers there is a risk of bruising. Arnica tablets or gel can speed up the healing time. When working with dermal fillers there are also some very rare complications such as vascular occlusion and this is something which is discussed in detail at your consultation.
Wrinkle-relaxing injections carry few side-effects. There is some short-lived redness and also a risk of bruising although this is minimal.
Will I need a check-up?
Aftercare is very important to Dr Sabba so a four-week follow-up is arranged for all patients who have had a dermal filler procedure in order to review the final result. If more filler is needed this can be undertaken at the follow-up appointment.
For wrinkle-relaxation procedures, a follow-up appointment is always organised for patients two to three weeks after the initial treatment. This is especially important for new patients where some adjustment may be needed in order to achieve the best result possible. Some patients however may not feel the need to return so this is discussed on a case by case basis.
What is the cost?
Treatment with dermal filler starts from £450
Wrinkle-relaxing injections start from £280