What is Chin Reduction Surgery?

Chin Reduction surgery, also known as Reduction Genioplasty, reduces the size, projection, or vertical height of the chin. It is performed for functional, developmental, and reconstructive reasons as well as aesthetic ones. Indications for Chin Reduction surgery include:

• Medical conditions which cause chin overgrowth such as Macrogenia and Acromegaly
• Facial skeletal disproportion caused by injury or genetics
• Correction of jaw deformities as part of orthognathic surgery, such as an underbite or an overly long lower face that prevents comfortable lip closure
• Asymmetry after trauma or previous surgery
• Where significant psychological distress is present, ideally after assessment for body dysmorphic disorder.

Chin Reduction surgery is usually performed under general anaesthetic through an incision inside the mouth, so there is no visible scar. The surgeon cuts the chin portion of the lower jawbone, moves it backwards or shortens it, and secures it with small titanium plates and screws. Milder cases may involve contouring the bone surface or removing excess soft tissue instead.

Cadogan Clinic's team of Consultant Facial Surgeons have been handpicked due to their commitment to delivering the highest standards of patient care and outcomes. 100% of Cadodogan Clinic's surgical patients would recommend the clinic to their family and friends.

Chin Reduction surgery is a highly effective procedure for addressing a wide range of symptoms affecting the chin and jawline.

Why have a Chin Reduction?

Chin Reduction is for those who are looking to reduce the size of their chin. It may be that they have a condition known as Macrogenia. This is where the chin is overly prominent and completely out of proportion with other facial features. This is an extreme instance of a large chin, but it can also be the case where the chin only slightly protrudes, but this still affects the overall proportions of the face.

The chin is an important feature of the face. When it is out of proportion, it is immediately noticeable. It can also have an impact on how other facial features function. For example, chin prominence can affect how the mouth opens and closes, which may impact speaking and eating.

Chin reduction surgery obviously reduces the size of the chin, but it also has a positive impact on the face as a whole. 

Who is a Good Candidate for Chin Reduction?

When it comes to Chin Reduction surgery, it is not a procedure that is suitable for everyone. Some of the factors that are considered include:

• Does the person have an excessively protruding chin?
• Are symptoms affecting the chin causing distress?
• Does the person still have a normal bite (do the top and lower teeth align appropriately)?
• Is the person generally healthy?
• Is the person a non-smoker or able to stop before the procedure?
• Does the person have realistic expectations?

These are points that can be discussed with Chin Reduction surgeons to ensure that you are a good match for the procedure and it is an effective procedure to address your symptoms. Like any other form of surgery, Chin Reduction carries certain risks, and so any potential patients must be suitable. Where this isn’t the case, Chin Reduction surgeons will not be able to carry out the procedure, and they will take the time to fully advise you why this is the case. They may be able to suggest alternative treatments or recommend changes that will allow the procedure to go ahead.

How Long Does it Take to Recover From Chin Reduction Surgery?

Chin Reduction surgery is an invasive procedure. This means that you should expect to take some time to recover and also expect it to take some time before you can see the full results. Although recovery times may vary between individuals, typically you can expect:

• Moderate, but manageable pain for 3-5 days in the face and neck
• Bruising to be visible for 10-14 days
• Minor swelling which should subside within 3-4 weeks
• Patients can usually return to normal activities after 1 week
• After 6 weeks, strenuous physical activity can be resumed 

Bruising and swelling reduce significantly within the first 2 weeks, and this is when you will probably first notice the changes that the surgery has achieved. The full effects will only be appreciated when the swelling has fully subsided, and this could take several weeks. There are certain steps that you can take to aid your recovery, such as:

• Keeping your head elevated even when sleeping
• Applying ice to reduce the swelling
• Taking care when brushing your teeth
• Eating soft foods during initial recovery
• Taking short walks to encourage blood flow
• Avoiding heavy lifting/strenuous exercise 

How Much Does Chin Reduction Surgery Cost?

As is often the case with plastic surgery procedures, the cost of Chin Reduction surgery can vary. It is reasonable to expect costs to range from £1,500 up to around £6,000. The surgery can cost more but this provides an average range. Factors that can affect the price include:

• The extent of the surgery required
• The surgeon performing your procedure
• The location of your surgery and the facilities that they offer
• The experience of the chin reduction surgeons 
• The quality of aftercare provided 

Of course, cost is always going to be a consideration when it comes to Chin Reduction surgery. It should, however, never be the sole factor used to make a decision. What matters most is that you see results that you are satisfied with and that you are in safe hands. 

How to Choose the Best Surgeon for Chin Reduction

When exploring Chin Reduction surgeons who can carry out your procedure, it is important to find an expert that you are comfortable with. This surgeon needs to have experience addressing your symptoms and be able to explain to you how this can be achieved or explain why it is not possible.

Beyond the technical skills required to carry out the procedure itself, Chin Reduction surgeons need to be able to look at your face as a whole and ensure a balanced appearance. At Cadogan Clinic, we are lucky to have some of the most experienced surgeons that there are. Booking a consultation will allow you to appreciate their level of expertise and to see how they can assist you.