Also known as genioplasty, chin augmentation surgery can reshape your chin by either enhancing or reducing the bone.

Proportional harmony between the upper, middle and lower thirds of the face is a key factor in facial aesthetics. The balance between the middle third – nose and cheeks with the chin – is also of utmost importance. The appearance of a “weak” chin can be the result of an overly prominent nose, which can then throw out the balance between these two important areas.

Occasionally I recommend a genioplasty to a patient having a rhinoplasty in order to achieve facial proportion, as the size of the chin may magnify or minimise the perceived size of the nose.

Chin augmentation technique

Two broad categories exist for chin enhancement; operative and non-operative. The latter is achieved with temporary fillers and I use this for cases which need only a minor degree of augmentation. The operative approach is far more predictable and long lasting. This can be achieved with an implant or a surgical procedure, called a sliding genioplasty.

In a sliding genioplasty, the tip of the chin bone is cut and moved into a more proportionate position. It is then secured in place with plates and screws. Should the permanency of a sliding genioplasty be a concern to you, then I would use an implant to augment the projection of your chin.

Both procedures can be performed with an incision on the inside of the mouth or on the outside just below the chin in a well concealed area.

I use advanced 3D computer generated imaging (not Photoshop) to try and simulate the predicted post-op result. During your consultation we will go through your 3D image and use my simulation software to plan your operation and likely post-operative result. I admit 3D simulation may not be 100% accurate and results may slightly vary from simulated images, but it is the most precise tool we have to predict an outcome at present. It is far more reliable than other patients’ before/after photographs, or using Photoshop.

How long does it take to recover from a chin augmentation?

A genioplasty is performed under general anaesthetic as a day case. Patients usually take 1-2 weeks off work, during which time a special pressure garment is worn to support the new shape.

What are the potential risks and complications of chin augmentation?

  • Allergic or hypersensitive reaction to the antiseptic, dressings or medications
  • Immediately following your surgery you may experience short-term nausea and vomiting due to the anaesthesia
  • You may have a sore throat as a result of the breathing tube which will be used during the general anaesthesic
  • Bleeding from the incision site
  • Infection which may require antibiotic treatment or, in rare cases, additional surgery
  • Swelling, pain and bruising around the incision site
  • Temporary numbness of the lower lip and chin area
  • Difficulties with smiling for several weeks following the surgery
  • A blood clot may form beneath the site of the incision and drainage may be required
  • Additional surgery may be required if the implant moves
  • Following the surgery, you may experience short-term nausea and vomiting as a result of the anaesthesia
  • Smokers or diabetics may experience slow healing
  • You may develop keloid or hypertrophic scars which are raised and thickened scars. This type of scarring may be unsightly, annoying and itchy, however, they are not threatening to your health and rare if you have no family history of the condition. Scars inside the mouth rarely form keloid or hypertrophic scars, but should you need an external scar there is a slight risk of this occurring.

How much does chin augmentation surgery cost?

Costs associated with a chin augmentation varies between: $7000-$9000 depending on a number of factors:

After our consultation my staff will give you an itemised account of the total cost.