Information about the procedure
Changing the projection and shape of the chin to improve the profile and balance of the face.
On this page
What it involves
Mentoplasty corrects a chin that is too small, overprojected or asymmetrical. The change often has a greater effect on the profile than patients expect.
A small chin makes the nose look larger and the neck shorter and fuller. Correcting it therefore sometimes solves a problem the patient had attributed to the nose.
There are two main options — an implant or repositioning your own bone. The choice depends on the degree of disproportion, on your bite and on whether a vertical change is also needed.
Types and approaches
Chin implant
A silicone or porous polyethylene implant is placed on the bone through a small incision under the chin or inside the mouth. A simpler operation with a faster recovery, and reversible.
Chin osteotomy (genioplasty)
The bone is cut and moved forwards, backwards, up or down, then fixed with plates and screws. More complex, but it allows correction in several directions and uses your own bone.
Chin reduction
For an overprojected chin, the bone is reduced.
Fat grafting or dermal fillers
Non-surgical options for minor contour correction, without changing the bone structure.
Who it is suitable for
Suitable for
- A weak chin and poorly defined profile
- Disproportion between the nose, chin and neck
- Chin asymmetry
- Wishing for a more defined jawline
- A normal bite — if there is a problem with the bite, orthognathic surgery is discussed
Not suitable, or postponed, in cases of
- Significant malocclusion — a different solution is needed
- Active infection in the mouth or a dental problem
- Adolescents who are still growing
- Unrealistic expectations that the chin alone will change the whole face
Preparation
- Consultation with profile analysis and assessment of the bite
- X-ray when bone surgery is planned
- Dental check-up and any necessary dental treatment if the approach is through the mouth
- Pre-operative tests and a consultation with a cardiologist or an anaesthetist
- Stopping smoking
How it is performed
The operation is performed under general anaesthesia or local anaesthesia with sedation, depending on its extent. It takes about 45 minutes for an implant and up to two hours for bone surgery.
The incision is made either under the chin, where the scar is hidden, or inside the mouth, leaving no external scar.
An elastic dressing is worn for a few days.
Recovery
- The first 48 hoursSwelling and numbness in the chin. Soft food if the approach was through the mouth.
- The first weekSwelling peaks. With an external incision, the stitches are removed around day 7. Soft food and careful oral hygiene.
- 2–4 weeksMost patients return to work after 7–10 days. Numbness of the chin and lower lip is normal and can last for months.
- 1–3 monthsThe swelling settles and the contour becomes clearly visible.
- 6 monthsFinal result. In some patients, full return of sensation takes longer.
Pain and discomfort
The discomfort is moderate. More unpleasant than the pain are the numbness and a feeling of stiffness when talking and chewing during the first few days. Standard painkillers are usually sufficient.
Risks and complications
Every intervention carries risks. Listing them does not mean they are expected to occur — it allows you to make an informed decision.
- Temporary or permanent numbness of the chin and lower lip
- Implant displacement
- Infection around the implant, which may require its removal
- Resorption of the bone beneath the implant — a slow process, usually of no clinical significance
- Asymmetry
- Problems with fixation after bone surgery
- Unsatisfactory projection requiring revision
Results and longevity
The result is long-lasting with both approaches.
The implant can be removed or replaced if you are not satisfied with the result — an advantage over bone surgery.
The effect on the profile is most visible in a side-view photograph, which patients often find a pleasant surprise.