Genioplasty (Chin Surgery)

Genioplasty, also known as chin surgery, is a procedure used to change the size and position of the chin, with the aim of bringing balance to facial features and correcting facial asymmetries.

Depending on the patient’s needs, the procedure may involve implants or a sliding osteotomy. In either case, it is performed under general anaesthesia.

Typically, full recovery takes around 3 to 4 months, although the most uncomfortable symptoms usually disappear within 2 days.

Below, you can find everything you need to know about chin surgery, also referred to as genioplasty.

Genioplasty is the surgical procedure used to alter the size and position of the chin. This operation helps to balance facial features and correct facial asymmetries.

This type of maxillofacial surgery offers highly noticeable aesthetic results. The procedure is carried out through an intraoral incision to access the chin bone and perform the necessary movements until the desired position is achieved.

The procedure can be performed in several ways:

• Chin advancement. This is done in cases of microgenia, where the chin is too small in proportion to the rest of the face. It involves moving the chin forward to enhance projection. 

Chin augmentation can be performed using either a genioplasty with an implant or a sliding osteotomy.

• Chin setback. Macrogenia refers to an excessively large chin. In such cases, the chin is repositioned backwards to reduce its size.
• Side-to-side osteotomy. This is indicated in cases of asymmetric chins.
• Vertical chin adjustment. This is performed to either lengthen or shorten the chin.

Depending on your specific situation, a particular type of surgery will be required to address your needs. 

Genioplasty (chin surgery) is indicated for a variety of patient profiles. In fact, the most common reasons for undergoing genioplasty include the following:

• Orthognathic surgery. Genioplasty is often performed in combination with orthognathic surgery to achieve ideal facial balance.
• Facial asymmetry. This procedure is also used to correct abnormalities in jawbone development, such as facial asymmetry or congenital agenesis.

Genioplasty is the appropriate surgery when the chin is either too small or excessively large.

• Craniofacial reconstruction. Following facial trauma, genioplasty is frequently part of reconstructive facial surgery.
• Gender-affirming surgery. Patients undergoing gender transition may opt for chin surgery to achieve their desired chin shape and size.

If your case relates to any of the circumstances mentioned above, it is important to schedule a consultation with a specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery so they can assess your situation.

This way, the surgeon can determine whether surgery is necessary to resolve your case.

To determine whether chin surgery is the most suitable option for your maxillofacial condition, it is best to attend a surgical assessment consultation with a specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery.

Operarme offers you a free initial surgical assessment consultation with the maxillofacial surgeon, with no waiting times.
To book this medical appointment, you can call at +34 91 141 33 56 or click on the image below:

Are you interested in chin surgery?

Request a free assessment appointment with our specialists in Orthognathic surgery and set an intervention date for the treatment

Make appointment

During the consultation, the specialist will provide a surgery-focused diagnosis to determine whether or not you are a suitable candidate for genioplasty.

It is therefore very important that you bring along the results of any previous tests you have undergone. This will help ensure the diagnosis is as accurate as possible.

In addition to reviewing your medical history, the specialist will carry out a facial analysis to assess the proportions of your facial features and identify the appropriate technique to restore balance. Photographs will also be taken to document the condition of your chin prior to surgery.

We recommend making the most of this free consultation by asking about anything you are unsure of. It’s also advisable to share your expectations regarding the surgery, so the specialist can advise whether they are realistic or if there are any limitations.

Once the specialist has explained everything about the chin surgery—technique, type of anaesthesia, estimated recovery time, etc.—and you decide to proceed, you will be scheduled for the necessary preoperative tests.

Preoperative assessment for chin surgery

Before surgery, it is essential to carry out a series of preoperative tests to rule out any risks. These three tests are included in the price of the genioplasty with Operarme.

The preoperative assessment for chin surgery includes the following:

• Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess your cardiovascular health.
• Full blood test, including a complete blood count, basic coagulation study, kidney function panel, and glucose test. A urine test will also be performed to rule out infection.
• Chest X-ray (if deemed necessary by the doctor). This test is carried out to check for any signs of pulmonary conditions and to ensure that the trachea is correctly aligned.

Once the preoperative phase is complete, you will attend a consultation with the anaesthetist. It is vital that the specialist understands your lifestyle habits, diet, and any other relevant factors that may influence the anaesthesia, to ensure the surgery is performed as safely as possible.

Genioplasty is typically performed under general anaesthesia, although in certain cases, it may be carried out under local anaesthesia with sedation.

Genioplasty (chin surgery) is a procedure that improves chin projection and restores balanced proportions in cases where the chin is either too small or too large. This surgery is performed on patients whose jaw is correctly aligned and does not present any functional issues.

If there is a structural or functional alteration of the jaw, orthognathic surgery is the appropriate treatment. 

However, in cases of mandibular retrognathia (receding jaw), genioplasty may be combined with orthognathic surgery to enhance aesthetic results.

Depending on the patient’s facial anatomy, one of the following surgical techniques will be used:

Genioplasty with Implant

• An incision is made either intraorally or externally beneath the chin, depending on the specific case.
• A silicone implant is inserted to achieve the desired chin size and position.
• Alternatively, the surgeon may contour the chin using the patient’s own fat, which is harvested, centrifuged, and processed prior to injection.

In this case, small injections are administered until the ideal size and projection are achieved.

Sliding Genioplasty

• An incision is made inside the mouth, beneath the roots of the teeth, carefully avoiding the inferior alveolar nerve to prevent damage.
• A horizontal cut is made in the chin bone, creating a bony flap.
• The bone segment is then moved forward to the desired position.
• It is fixed in place using small titanium plates and screws.

Genioplasty is performed under general anaesthesia and typically lasts between 30 and 90 minutes.

One of the advantages of sliding genioplasty is that it avoids the need for future touch-ups, as it involves repositioning the patient's own bone.

If the chin augmentation is performed using an implant, the patient can usually return home the same day. However, an overnight hospital stay is often recommended.

In contrast, when a sliding genioplasty is performed, an overnight hospital stay is generally required. In most cases, the patient will be discharged the day after surgery.

Immediately after surgery, you will be taken to the recovery room, where you will remain under medical supervision until the effects of the anaesthesia have fully worn off.

You will then be transferred to your hospital room, where you will stay under observation for one day. After 24 hours, your consultant will assess your condition and determine whether you are ready for discharge.

Before leaving the hospital, the medical team will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and painkillers to help manage any discomfort or swelling you may experience during the first few days.

You will also be given a set of instructions to help ensure a smooth and speedy recovery.

Recovery after chin surgery

The most immediate postoperative symptoms are swelling and discomfort in the operated area. These symptoms are completely normal and should not be a cause for concern.

However, it is essential to maintain good hygiene and follow all of your surgeon’s recommendations:

• Rinse your mouth with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection.
• Keep your head elevated whenever you are resting or sleeping.
• Avoid physical exertion in the first few days, particularly any activities that could result in facial impact.
• Stick to a liquid-based diet during the first few weeks to avoid the need for chewing.
• Avoid sun exposure for at least six weeks to ensure proper and complete healing of the area.

Full recovery generally occurs between 3 to 4 months following chin surgery.

All postoperative care instructions will remain in place until your consultant confirms that you are fully recovered.

The main advantage of genioplasty is the physical and emotional satisfaction it offers patients. In addition, there are several other benefits associated with the procedure:

• It can be combined with other treatments, such as orthognathic surgery, to enhance facial outcomes.
• It is a relatively straightforward surgical procedure.
• Sliding genioplasty eliminates the risk of prosthesis rejection.
• There are no visible scars.
• Results appear natural and harmonious.
• The most uncomfortable symptoms usually subside within two days.

Another key advantage of genioplasty is its low complication rate. While serious risks are uncommon, it is important to be aware of certain warning signs. 

You should contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Infection
• Haematomas or persistent bleeding
• Excessive sensitivity

Why choose Operarme for your chin surgery?

In addition to the general benefits of the procedure, Operarme offers a number of added advantages to ensure a safe and comfortable experience throughout the entire surgical process:

• Free surgical consultation. It is essential to have an initial consultation with a specialist to determine whether you are a suitable candidate for surgery. Operarme provides a free surgical assessment for genioplasty.
  
  
• Top-level hospitals. One of the cornerstones of our service is the quality of the medical team and hospital facilities. Operarme works exclusively with leading hospitals across the country, all equipped with advanced medical technology and experienced professionals to ensure successful surgical outcomes.
  
  
• All-inclusive fixed price. The price of genioplasty includes everything required to perform the procedure with the highest standard of safety. This is a fixed, all-inclusive price – meaning you won’t have to worry about unexpected costs.
  
  
• Personalised care throughout the process. Operarme has a dedicated patient service team that will provide you with personalised support, assisting you with all the necessary arrangements and answering any questions you may have.

The price of chin surgery is 7.590 €. Operarme includes everything necessary to perform the procedure with the highest guarantee of successful results. 

Operarme includes the following in the price of genioplasty:

• Initial surgical assessment consultation
• Operating theatre reservation and use
• Complete preoperative testing
• Medical fees
• Nursing team fees
• Surgical materials required for the procedure
• Anaesthesia and recovery room reservation
• Two postoperative visits
• Transfer service
• Medical Complications insurance
• Process management and personalised care

If you want to solve your chin concerns and book a free surgical assessment consultation, call us at +34 91 141 33 56 or click on the Request Appointment button below:

Are you interested in chin surgery?

Request a free assessment appointment with our specialists in Orthognathic surgery and set an intervention date for the treatment

Make appointment