Genioplasty

Genioplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape the chin, enhancing facial balance and improving profile aesthetics. It can be performed to:

  • Make the chin more or less prominent

  • Improve symmetry

  • Increase or decrease chin projection

Chin reshaping is often considered in combination with rhinoplasty, as the relationship between the chin and nose significantly affects facial harmony.

There are two main types of genioplasty:

Bone genioplasty (sliding genioplasty)

  • The chin bone is cut and moved into a new position. This allows for precise control over shape, projection, and symmetry. Incisions are made inside the mouth, leaving no visible scars. The repositioned bone is secured with small titanium plates and screws. This procedure does not affect the teeth or bite, and has no impact on how you eat.

 Chin implant augmentation

  • Chin size and shape can be enhanced using implants, made from either your own bone or synthetic materials. Implants may be inserted via an incision inside the mouth or through a small incision under the chin. This is often preferred for milder enhancements.

While many craniofacial surgeons prefer bone reshaping for long-term stability and natural results, both techniques are valid. The choice depends on your anatomy, goals, and preferences, and is made following a thorough consultation and jaw X-rays for surgical planning.

    • Bone genioplasty: Most patients stay overnight due to mild discomfort and swelling following bone surgery.

    • Chin implants or minor adjustments: These are often done as day surgery, and an overnight stay is usually not necessary.

    Mr. Eccles will advise you on the best option based on your case.

  • You can usually go home the next day after surgery. Swelling and bruising are normal and vary depending on the technique:

    • Bone surgery generally causes more swelling and longer recovery.

    • Implants tend to result in milder, shorter-lasting swelling.

    Most visible swelling settles after 2 weeks, but subtle swelling can take several months to fully resolve. You can eat normally after surgery, though soft foods are more comfortable in the first few days. You may feel tightness or numbness around the chin initially, which usually improves over time.

  • As with any surgical procedure, genioplasty involves some risks and limitations. These may include:

    • Swelling and bruising, particularly with bone surgery

    • Infection, especially with implants – may require antibiotics or removal

    • Numbness or tingling in the chin or lower lip, due to the close proximity of nerves – usually temporary but may persist

    • Scarring, though internal incisions are typically hidden; external incisions under the chin may leave a small scar

    • Implant movement or displacement, though rare, may require revision

    • Unsatisfactory results, such as asymmetry or over/under-projection – revision surgery may be considered after full healing

    • Delayed healing or poor bone integration, particularly in smokers or patients with certain medical conditions

    Before surgery, Mr. Eccles will discuss these risks with you in detail and help you decide whether the potential benefits outweigh the risks in your specific case.

  • Bone genioplasty offers long-term, stable, and predictable results.

    Implants may also last for many years, but there is a small risk of movement, infection, or future revision.

    In either case, Mr. Eccles will explain what you can realistically expect and what method best suits your facial structure and goals.