Genioplasty 

Genioplasty

Genioplasty, from the Greek geneion, meaning chin, is a surgical procedure used to correct the position and shape of the chin through osteotomy, or cutting, of the chin symphysis and movement of the bone fragment. Unlike silicone chin implants, genioplasty works with the patient’s own bone. This makes it possible to precisely change the position of the chin in any direction: move it forward, move it backward, raise it, lower it, or correct asymmetry.

At Iskusstvo Clinic in Moscow, genioplasty is performed either as an independent operation or as the final stage of orthognathic treatment.

Indications

Underdeveloped, recessed chin, or microgenia, when the lower third of the face appears shortened

Protruding chin, or progenia, when the lower third of the face is excessively pronounced

Chin asymmetry, meaning deviation to one side

Vertical disproportions, when the chin is too high or too low

Completion of orthognathic treatment, when additional correction of the lower third of the face is required after jaw osteotomy

Correction of facial proportions without changing the bite, for aesthetic purposes in patients with a normal bite

How the Operation Is Performed

The operation is performed under general or intravenous anesthesia through an intraoral approach. The incision is made from the inside of the lower lip, so there are no scars on the face.

The surgeon exposes the chin symphysis, performs an osteotomy, meaning a horizontal cut of the bone below the tooth roots, and moves the bone fragment into the planned position. Fixation is performed with titanium plates and screws.

The duration of surgery ranges from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

If necessary, the shape of the chin is corrected at the same time as the movement: excess bone volume is removed, or, conversely, a volume defect is filled with bone chips. This makes it possible not only to change the position, but also to refine the shape.

Movement Options

Horizontal advancement to correct a recessed chin

Horizontal setback to reduce protrusion

Vertical height change to lengthen or shorten the lower third of the face

Lateral movement to correct asymmetry

Fragment rotation for combined correction

Rehabilitation

Hospitalization usually lasts 1–2 days. In isolated genioplasty performed under intravenous anesthesia, outpatient surgery may be possible.

Swelling of the chin and lower lip lasts 2–3 weeks. A soft diet is required for 4–6 weeks.

Temporary numbness of the lower lip and chin may occur. In most cases, it resolves within several months.

The final result forms by 3–6 months.

Contraindications

Contraindications include incomplete growth of the facial skeleton, active inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, and severe systemic diseases.

The decision is made by the surgeon after examination and CT analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Is Genioplasty Different from a Chin Implant?

An implant adds volume, but does not change the position of the bone. Genioplasty works with the patient’s own bone, making it possible to move the chin in any direction, correct asymmetry, and change vertical height.

The result is more predictable and long-term. If only additional projection is needed without changing the bone position, an implant may be an alternative. This is discussed during the consultation.

Will Scars Be Visible?

No. The incision is intraoral, on the mucosa of the lower lip. There are no visible external scars.

Will My Smile Change After Genioplasty?

Only slightly. Movement of the chin fragment almost does not affect the soft tissue component of the smile, because the muscles involved in smiling attach above the osteotomy area.

Can Genioplasty Be Combined with Other Operations?

Yes. Genioplasty is often performed at the same time as jaw osteotomy, rhinoplasty, or other facial procedures.

Combining stages reduces the total treatment and rehabilitation time.

Book a Consultation

Book a consultation. The surgeon will assess your facial proportions and recommend the optimal chin correction plan.