Weak Chin: What Is It And How Can it Be Fixed

A weak chin, receding chin, or recessive chin is a condition where your lower and upper jaw do not align properly, with the lower jaw being set back in comparison to the upper jaw. Oftentimes this is a cosmetic condition, but it can be related to other health concerns too. Below, we look at the causes of a weak chin, and the solutions to fix it including non-invasive options and surgery like chin implants and jaw surgery.

Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers using hyaluronic acid are one of the few non-invasive weak chin treatment options. During this short procedure, the fillers are injected into your chin and help to add volume and strengthen the appearance of your lower face, bringing it in balance with the upper section.

Typically, dermal filler sessions take just 30 minutes with no downtime. They yield great results and offer a quicker solution compared to surgery, but the downside is the effect is not permanent and repeat sessions may be needed over time. While Dermal Fillers can be effective, fat transfer represents the next step up from this with more pronounced end results.

Orthodontics

As discussed above, a recessive chin can be related to issues like an overbite or open bit. In these instances, orthodontics may be required and this is something you would examine with your dental surgeon. Orthodontic treatment can involve braces and dental retainers to alter the jaw shape and structure.

Chin Implants and Augmentation

Chin augmentation is one of the most common receding chin surgery and involves the insertion of chin implants to change the shape and structure of your lower face and correct conditions like a receding chin. The surgery typically takes between 1-1.5 hours, and you can expect to take up to 7 days off of work.

Full recovery is achieved after 4-6 weeks, and this weak chin treatment can be combined with other processes like fillers and rhinoplasty if the balance of your facial structure needs to be addressed.

Fat Transfer and Liposuction

Fat transfer is a procedure that involves removing your own fat from other areas of your body via liposuction, purifying it, and reinjecting it into your chin. This gives your weak chin volume and brings it’s shape more in line with your upper face.  The surgery typically takes less than an hour, you may only need a few days off of work, and the full recovery period is expected to be one week.

Genioplasty

Sliding genioplasty is another common surgical technique to correct a weak chin. During this procedure, a surgical incision is made at the base of your gumline inside your mouth so that the surgeon can access your chin bone and reshape and reposition it. Genioplasty refers to a group of procedures including: chin advancement (bringing the chin forward), chin reduction (moving the chin back), and chin contouring to achieve a more harmonious profile.

In the case of a weak chin once the chin bone has been brought forward and repositioned, it is secured in place with small metal plates. It can also be contoured at this point to achieve optimal results.

This is a more extensive procedure, and you will be put under general anaesthetic. However, this is the best option for correcting move pronounced weak chins and has the benefit of leaving no visible external scarring on your chin or neck.

Jaw Surgery

Depending on the underlying condition, jaw surgery could be the best option to correct a weak chin. It is often used when the weak chin is causing issues with breathing and eating, or causing speech impediments, for example.

During this procedure, the jaw is separated, repositioned, and resecured to create a more balanced upper and lower jaw and thus correcting a weak chin. Jaw surgery is one of the most intricate options and the recovery period is much longer compared to procedures like a neck lift or chin augmentation.

Neck Lift

A neck lift can be used to fix a weak chin and is often used in combination with other procedures such as a facelift and liposuction to enhance the overall end results. During this procedure, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, excess fat on the neck and jaw is removed, and your chin is effectively reshaped and defined to combat the appearance of a weak chin. 

Weak Chins in Men

When looking at weak chin treatment, it’s important to understand the difference between men and women in terms of the desired outcome. With women, it’s typically desired to create a softer, more overall shape for the face and chin, and a smooth neckline.

In contrast, the ideal facial structure of a man is seen to include a sharp chin, contoured neck, and well-defined jawline. This can mean the exact surgical procedures to combat a weak chin can differ for men and women. 

Surgery is the Best Weak Chin Treatment for Men and Women

As weak chins are typically genetic and the result of your jaw structure from birth, the most effective treatments are surgical. Controlling your weight can also complement the structure of your chin, but procedures such as jaw surgery, chin implants, and genioplasty are the best options for long-lasting results.  

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