What is Chin reduction surgery

Chin Reduction surgery is performed to enhance facial balance by reducing the chin prominence or by remodelling the chin, which is done by remodelling the front of the mandible. The aim is to provide an adequate projection of the chin as well as correct the height of the chin, putting it in better balance with other facial features. The optimum balance is determined by the proportions of the upper, middle and lower face, which is specific to men and women.

Who is ideal candidate of this surgery

The ideal patients for a chin reduction are those with a big chin that is out of proportion with the face (macrogenia). They should always have a normal tooth bite.

Procedure of the surgery

• Pre-operative radiographs of the mandible (lower jaw) will be obtained for root control of the lower teeth and plan how much remodeling is required to restore balance to the lower face.

• Chin reduction surgery is carried out under general anesthesia, usually as a daytime procedure.   

• A chin reduction operation typically takes approximately 1 to 1 ½ hours to complete depending on the complexity of the procedure.

• After a chin reduction, a face support garment is installed at the end of the surgery to help control swelling and reduce postoperative motion.It must be worn all day for the first week.

Recovery time

Moderate pain or discomfort is anticipated for 3-5 days. Patients can resume normal daily activities after a week, but should avoid strenuous exercises/activities for 6 weeks, including contact sports.

Results of the surgery

The results are primarily natural. The purpose of chin reduction surgery is to restore an aesthetic facial shape that is in balance with your facial features – i.e. looks natural and doesn't seem out of the ordinary. Keep in mind that it may take 6 weeks or more for the final outcome to be achieved.

What to expect after the surgery

• Common to any surgical procedure, there are always risks related to surgery. However, complications are not common. Bruises can occur and can take 2 weeks to resolve, whereas major bleeding is rare.

• Infection is infrequent (under 0.5%) and requires appropriate antibiotic therapy.

Some discomfort around the chin and lower lip is expected and will generally return to normal between 6 and 12 weeks after surgery.