Chin Surgery (Mentoplasty/Genioplasty)

Surgery can be used to make chins smaller in size (Genioplasty) or larger through the use of implants (Mentoplasty). Implants can be made of silicone or other man-made materials or in some instances tissue from the patient’s body can be used.

What does the procedure involve?

To reduce the size of the chin the surgeon will make an incision inside the mouth and remove some of the bone or slide part of the bone and re-position the chin point.

Implants are inserted through incisions made in the mouth, although in some cases an incision may be made directly under the chin. A pocket is made for the implant to be placed and the incision is stitched up.

What are the benefits and what are the risks?

Benefits

After surgery the definition and shape of the chin will have changed, often altering the appearance of the face. The results will be permanent if a silicone or man-made implant has been used but may not be so if human tissue has been used as this will deteriorate and age over time.

Risks

Risks are rare but may include infection or fluid collection. There may also be a risk of nerve damage causing numbness to the lower lip. In some instances with a mentoplasty, the implant may shift or rupture and will need to be removed. Unfortunately this is not always a straight forward procedure. Another possible risk is that implant hardening may occur, also known as capsular contracture. This happens when the layer of scar tissue that the body normally grows around the implant contracts or shrinks. This can be quite painful and can lead to the implant losing its shape. Again, if this occurs then the implant will have to be removed.

Is it the right procedure for me?

People who opt for chin surgery do so because they are unhappy with the shape of the chin and the overall appearance it gives to the face. Alternatively surgery is undertaken because the chin has been damaged some way in an accident or is used to correct any birth defects. In some cases surgery is not the right procedure to achieve the desired look and as such you should speak to your surgeon about alternative procedures such as fillers.

How long does the procedure take?

To reduce the size of the chin, surgery takes approximately four hours. For a mentoplasty, the procedure will take approximately two hours per implant.

What happens after surgery?

After surgery you will experience some pain and discomfort and you should expect some swelling. Most swelling should go down within a week but may take between one and three months to finally disappear when your final face shape should become apparent. Initially you may be expected to sleep in an elevated position to reduce swelling. If you have had an implant then you may also have to wear a supportive brace whilst you sleep to help the implant heal in the best position and prevent any slippage. If incisions have been made in the mouth then you will be advised by your surgeon about oral hygiene and diet. You may be placed on a liquid diet for several days. Any stitches will be removed between seven and ten days after surgery.

How much is it likely to cost?

Prices may vary between £1,500 and £4,000