Among various cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, Genioplasty, or Chin surgery, holds a unique place. This procedure can bring impressive changes for individuals whose chin may not align with their overall facial aesthetics.
The chin plays a pivotal role in defining the face. A well-proportioned chin can anchor the face, providing harmony among features, while a chin perceived as too small or too large can disrupt this balance. Genioplasty offers a solution, tailored to fit the individual’s aesthetic goals and functional needs. It’s a procedure that requires precision, understanding of facial aesthetics, and a clear communication between Anthony and you regarding expectations and achievable outcomes.
Genioplasty is a specialised surgical procedure aimed at reshaping the chin. This can involve either augmenting a receding chin, reducing the size of an overly prominent chin, or correcting asymmetries and congenital deformities. The objective is to create a more aesthetically pleasing and balanced facial appearance. Unlike non-surgical cosmetic treatments that offer temporary solutions, Genioplasty provides permanent alterations to the chin’s structure.
This procedure is multifaceted, offering solutions that go beyond mere aesthetics. For instance, it can significantly impact facial harmony by enhancing the alignment between the chin and other facial features, such as the nose and forehead. Furthermore, Genioplasty can play a crucial role in improving functional issues, like chewing and speaking, especially when integrated with other orthodontic or maxillofacial surgeries.
2 to 4 hours
General
1 night
4 to 6 weeks
It can take 3 months for visible improvements to appear.
Who Needs Genioplasty?
Good candidates are those who are physically healthy, have realistic expectations about the outcome, and seek improvement for specific chin-related issues:
- Aesthetic Concerns: The most common candidates are those dissatisfied with the size, shape, or projection of their chin. This could manifest as a chin that appears either too recessed or prominent, disrupting the facial balance when viewed in profile. A well-defined chin can create a sense of harmony among facial features, enhancing overall attractiveness.
- Functional Issues: Some individuals may experience functional difficulties due to the structure of their chin and jaw. These issues can include challenges with chewing, speaking, or breathing, especially during sleep. In such cases, Genioplasty can be performed not only to improve the aesthetic aspect but also to address these functional concerns, often in conjunction with other dental or orthognathic procedures.
- Facial Asymmetry or Deformities: Congenital conditions, trauma, or previous surgeries can lead to asymmetries or deformities in the chin area. Candidates seeking correction for these issues may find Genioplasty a suitable option to restore symmetry and achieve a more natural appearance.
- Ageing-Related Changes: With age, the lower face can undergo changes that affect the appearance of the chin and jawline. Some individuals may choose Genioplasty as a way to counteract these effects, seeking to restore a more youthful and defined chin and jawline.
Benefits of the Genioplasty Procedure
It’s a procedure that can significantly improve both the aesthetic appeal and functionality of the lower face, contributing to a more balanced and harmonious overall appearance.
- Improved Facial Harmony: One of the primary benefits of Genioplasty is the ability to create a more balanced relationship between the chin and other facial features. By adjusting the chin’s size and shape, the procedure can enhance facial harmony, leading to a more proportionate and pleasing appearance. This balance is crucial not just for the profile view but also for how the face is perceived from the front.
- Enhanced Jawline Definition: Genioplasty can significantly improve the definition of the jawline, particularly in cases where the chin is recessed or lacks projection. A more defined jawline can contribute to a stronger, more youthful appearance, and in some cases, reduce the appearance of a double chin by creating a clearer distinction between the neck and jaw.
- Correction of Functional Issues: Beyond aesthetics, Genioplasty can address functional problems associated with a misaligned chin, such as difficulties with chewing, speech, or breathing. When performed in conjunction with orthodontic or orthognathic procedures, Genioplasty can improve overall oral function and comfort.
- Permanent Results: Unlike non-surgical cosmetic treatments that require regular maintenance, the outcomes of Genioplasty are permanent. This permanence provides a long-term solution for individuals looking to correct their chin’s appearance or function, offering lasting satisfaction with the results.
- Customisable Procedure: Genioplasty is highly customisable, allowing Anthony to tailor the procedure to the specific needs and goals of the individual. Whether the desired outcome is augmentation, reduction, or correction of asymmetry, the procedure can be adjusted to achieve the optimal result.
- Minimal Scarring: In many cases, Genioplasty involves incisions that are hidden inside the mouth or under the chin, minimising visible scarring. This consideration is crucial for individuals concerned about the potential visibility of surgical marks.
- Comprehensive Approach: For individuals undergoing other facial surgeries, such as Rhinoplasty or Facelift, Genioplasty can be combined with them to achieve a more comprehensive improvement in facial aesthetics.
Types of Genioplasty Procedures
Sliding Genioplasty
This surgical technique involves cutting the chin bone (mandible) and sliding it to a new position, either forward or backward, to enhance or reduce the chin’s projection. This method allows for significant changes in the chin’s size and shape and can also adjust the chin’s height if required. Sliding Genioplasty is often recommended for individuals needing substantial correction or those looking to improve chin symmetry. One of the benefits of this procedure is the ability to achieve a very natural-looking result, as it uses your bone structure rather than an implant.
Chin Implants
For those seeking to enhance the size and projection of their chin, chin implants offer a less invasive alternative to bone surgery. Made from biocompatible materials, such as silicone or polyethylene, these implants come in various shapes and sizes to fit the individual’s facial structure. The implant is typically inserted through a small incision either under the chin or inside the mouth. Chin Implants are a popular choice for individuals looking for a straightforward augmentation with a relatively short recovery period.
How is the Genioplasty Procedure Performed?
The Genioplasty procedure, whether for Augmentation or Reduction, is meticulously planned and executed to ensure the best possible outcomes. The specific steps vary depending on the type of Genioplasty chosen. Here are some details:
Pre-operative Planning
Before the surgery, detailed planning is crucial. This includes a thorough consultation with Anthony, during which your goals, preferences, and facial anatomy are discussed. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or 3D scans, may be used to assess the chin’s structure and plan the surgical approach. This phase is critical for setting realistic expectations and ensuring that you and Anthony are aligned on the desired outcome.
Anaesthesia
Genioplasty is performed under general anaesthesia, ensuring that you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Surgical Technique
- Sliding Genioplasty: Anthony makes an incision inside the mouth along the lower gum to access the chin bone. The bone is then cut, and the lower portion is moved forward or backward, depending on the desired correction. The repositioned bone segment is secured with plates and screws. This technique allows for adjustments in the chin’s projection, length, and sometimes width.
- Chin Implants: For Chin Augmentation with Implants, the incision can be made either inside the mouth or under the chin. Anthony creates a pocket over the chin bone to accommodate the implant, which is then inserted and positioned to enhance the chin’s projection and shape.
Closing the Incisions
For surgical options, the incisions are closed with sutures. If the incision is inside the mouth, dissolvable stitches are used, which will gradually disappear as the area heals. External incisions, if any, are closed with sutures that may need to be removed after a few days.
Genioplasty can be customised to meet the unique needs and aesthetic goals of each individual, with different techniques available to address various concerns.
Recovery after Genioplasty Procedure
The recovery process following a Genioplasty procedure is a phase that demands patience and adherence to post-operative care instructions to ensure the best possible outcomes. This period involves managing discomfort, swelling, and gradually returning to daily activities while allowing the chin and surrounding tissues to heal properly.
Immediately after the surgery, you will typically experience swelling, bruising, and some degree of discomfort in the treated area. These are normal reactions to the surgical intervention. To manage these symptoms, Anthony may prescribe pain relief medications and recommend cold compresses to help reduce swelling.
You are usually advised to keep your head elevated, even during sleep, for the first few days to minimise swelling. It’s also essential to follow any specific dietary restrictions provided by Anthony. Initially, a liquid or soft diet may be recommended to avoid putting pressure on the chin and facilitate healing.
Follow-up appointments are important to monitor the healing process and ensure that the chin is healing as expected. During these visits, Anthony will assess the surgical site, possibly remove sutures if they were not dissolvable, and address any concerns that you may have. These appointments are also an opportunity for Anthony to provide guidance on the continuation of post-operative care and adjust any recommendations as needed.
The timeline for returning to normal activities varies among patients, but you can expect to resume work and light daily activities within one to two weeks post-surgery. However, strenuous physical activities, including exercise, should be avoided for at least 4-6 weeks, or until Anthony gives you clearance. This precaution is to prevent any undue pressure or trauma to the healing chin.
How Much Is Genioplasty Surgery in the UK?
The cost of Genioplasty in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the specific type of Genioplasty procedure chosen, the surgeon’s experience and expertise and any additional services or procedures included in the treatment plan.
To obtain an accurate price quote for Genioplasty tailored to your needs, it’s recommended to schedule a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the surgeon will assess your facial anatomy, discuss your goals and expectations, and provide you with a personalized treatment plan, including a detailed cost breakdown.
FAQs
Find out more about your surgical journey
Can Genioplasty affect my ability to speak or eat?
Initially, you may experience some difficulty with speaking and eating, particularly if the procedure involves significant modification of the chin’s structure. These challenges are generally temporary. During the recovery period, it’s common to start with a soft or liquid diet and gradually return to normal eating habits as healing progresses. Any speech difficulties improve as swelling decreases and you adjust to the changes in your chin’s structure.
How do I know if I need Chin Implants or a Sliding Genioplasty?
The choice between a Chin Implants and Sliding Genioplasty depends on your specific aesthetic goals, the degree of Chin Augmentation or Reduction needed, and your overall facial structure.
Chin implants are often suitable for straightforward augmentation with minimal recovery time. In contrast, Sliding Genioplasty can provide more significant changes and address functional issues but involves a longer recovery. A consultation with Anthony is essential to determine the most appropriate procedure for your needs.
Will Genioplasty change the appearance of my smile?
Genioplasty can influence the lower facial area, potentially affecting your smile’s appearance, especially if the procedure alters the chin’s projection significantly. But these changes are usually subtle and contribute to a more harmonious facial balance. Anthony aims to enhance your overall appearance while maintaining the natural function and expression of your face, including your smile.
Is there an age limit for undergoing Genioplasty?
There’s no strict age limit for Genioplasty, but it’s generally recommended for individuals whose facial bones have finished growing. This occurs in the late teens to early twenties. For older adults, Genioplasty can still be an option, provided they are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the outcomes. Each case is evaluated individually to determine suitability for the procedure.
How long do the results of Genioplasty last?
The results of Genioplasty are considered permanent. Unlike non-surgical cosmetic treatments that may require regular maintenance, the changes made to the chin’s structure during surgery are lasting. Ageing and lifestyle factors can influence the overall appearance of your face over time, but the alterations made during the procedure are intended to be permanent.
What are the risks of Genioplasty procedure?
While Genioplasty can offer significant aesthetic and functional benefits, like any surgical procedure, it comes with potential risks and complications. Here are the primary risks associated with Genioplasty:
- Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection at the incision site or around the implanted material (in the case of chin implants). Anthony takes preventive measures, including administering antibiotics, to minimise this risk. You must follow post-operative care instructions closely to reduce the likelihood of infection.
- Nerve Damage: The surgical manipulation involved in Genioplasty can potentially affect the nerves supplying the chin and lower lip, leading to temporary or, in rare cases, permanent numbness or altered sensation. While Anthony aims to minimise nerve disruption, it’s a known risk that candidates should be aware of.
- Asymmetry: Despite careful planning and execution, there’s a possibility that the outcome may result in asymmetry, requiring revision surgery. Asymmetry can occur due to uneven healing, displacement of implants, or other factors.
- Bone Resorption: In procedures that involve moving the chin bone (such as Sliding Genioplasty), there’s a risk of bone resorption over time, where the bone may gradually diminish at the site of the Osteotomy (bone cut). This can potentially affect the stability and position of the chin.
- Implant-Related Issues: For Genioplasty procedures using implants, there are specific risks including implant shifting, rejection, or the need for removal due to infection or dissatisfaction with the aesthetic outcome. Choosing a highly experienced surgeon can minimise these risks, but they cannot be entirely eliminated.
- Dissatisfaction with Aesthetic Outcome: There’s always a risk that the final result may not meet your expectations, leading to dissatisfaction. This underscores the importance of having a thorough pre-operative consultation to ensure clear communication and realistic expectations.
Medical References about Chin Surgery
- Genioplasty: Background, History of the Procedure, Problem – Medscape
- Step-technique genioplasty: A case report – NCBI
- Sliding Genioplasty: Procedure, Recovery, Results & Risks – Cleveland Clinic
- Genioplasty: Types, procedure, and recovery – Medical News Today
- Genioplasty – an overview – Science Direct
Reviews
Patient satisfaction is the top priority for Anthony. You can find how patients feel about his work below.
The results are almost instantaneous!
I had this procedure in January 2023. I am 63 years old.
I did my research well but was lucky to find the perfect surgeon for me only 30 minutes away. Anthony Macquillan not only is an experienced plastic surgeon and a nerve specialist but is also a wonderful person to have contact with. He is so kind and considerate, he takes his time explaining everything and at all points during our visits right up to the day itself he said I could change my mind at any time if I wanted to! which I thought was remarkable. He is incredibly honest, and tells you all the worst things that could happen, which is scary but at least you can make an informed choice. And I would’ve got my money back! He has a great team and in particular his anaesthetist Daniel is superb and also put me so at ease. Recovering from a deep plane face and neck lift is not the simple thing that sometimes people make it out to be. Anthony doesn’t use drains. He uses a netting that is sewn under the surface of your skin and when your face swells ,boy, do you know it!
If you work too soon, it will swell up again, even though the netting is removed quite quickly. Even now nearly a year on, I still have some pulling and tightening under my chin, where the nerves are still knitting together -this is not a quick process. However, the results are almost instantaneous! Once you see that swelling going down, you can see the difference he’s made.
It’s also very interesting to know that only 10 people know I had this procedure and of the ones that didn’t even though they’ve been sitting right next to me, had no idea. People just say oh you look great or have you had a good rest.
Admittedly I wasn’t horrendous before, but I didn’t like the fact that my once sharp jawline has deteriorated. I didn’t have any fat transferred into my cheeks, but I did have some under my eyes which worked well and I managed to retain about 80% of it. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Anthony. He is superb so much so that he’s giving me another operation on Saturday. This time on my tummy! I have every faith in him and his techniques
The reason i only have partial pics is because I want to keep this to myself as much as possible:)
After some consideration I recently had an Advanced Mini Face Lift, by Mr MacQuillan, a new service that he is developing, and which I am sure will be a great success. I found him to be very understanding about what I wanted to achieve from the procedure and he explained in great detail how it was performed and what he could achieve from it.
The face lift was performed under local anaesthetic and sedation, and I felt no pain and was completely relaxed the whole time and felt well supported by Mr Sasada, the Consultant Anaesthetist who works with him all the nursing staff in the suite.
I am very pleased with the results, my jaw line and cheeks are greatly improved and my neck looks a lot better. The result is better than I expected and I am total delighted.
The small amount of bruising that I had cleared up very quickly, and the swelling and scars in front of my ears are hardly noticeable, so after the first few days it did not impact on my daily life. – apart from no lifting or bending.
Although not suitable for everybody who wants a face – lift, if this is the procedure that Mr MacQuillan thinks is suitable for you, I would certainly recommend it
Why Choose Anthony MacQuillan for Your Facial Procedure
Anthony’s dedication to artistry, precision, and individualised care ensures that your facial procedure will be tailored to meet your unique needs and aesthetic goals. Our clinic combines the latest surgical techniques with a compassionate approach to patient care, ensuring a supportive and reassuring experience from consultation through recovery.
To learn more about how our facial procedures can help you achieve the look you desire, or to schedule a consultation with Anthony, please contact us today.
Further Reading about Face Surgery with Consultant Plastic Surgeon Anthony MacQuillan
Read more information about other procedures Anthony preforms, including;
