Chin Reduction

A long, protrusive, or wide chin can imbalance the face. Fortunately, a chin reduction can establish symmetry and aesthetic harmony.

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A chin reduction explained

A genioplasty is a procedure that reshapes the chin, either with implants or by gently sculpting the chin and jawbones. When the size and shape of the chin is scaled back during a genioplasty, this is referred to as a chin reduction. Chin reductions are designed for those who have ‘witches chin’, or an otherwise lengthy or broad chin and jaw. During a chin reduction, Dr. Miller uses a special tool to carefully smoothen and reduce the size of the chin bone and jawbone. The result is an enhanced, balanced chin and jaw that creates a more proportional and attractive face. Chin reductions are permanent, and results look completely natural.

How is a chin reduction performed?

Dr. Miller performs chin reductions in his fully accredited surgical facilities. The patient is placed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia, depending on their medical history and the scope of correction desired. A small incision is placed either under the chin or in the mouth. The next step is to reshape the bones of the chin and jaw, as well as the surrounding tissue. To do this, Dr. Miller uses a tool called a cutting burr to carefully hone the angles of the chin bone millimeter by millimeter, creating a shorter and narrower shape. Then a similar instrument called a diamond burr is used to smoothen any sharp or elevated areas on the bone. In some cases, a small strip of the chin bone is removed to achieve the desired tapered look. Sometimes a chin reduction is performed in conjunction with a rhinoplasty.

What is recovery like for a chin reduction?

Patients should plan on two weeks for recovery from a chin reduction. Bruising and discomfort are normal for the first 5-7 days. Swelling is also to be expected, and may take a few weeks to a few months to disappear completely. Prescription painkillers, icing, and sleeping with the head elevated can all be utilized to increase patient comfort.

A liquid or soft diet is necessary for 1-2 weeks, and patients should avoid strenuous activity until receiving clearance from Dr. Miller. Most patients can resume desk work and light social activity after a week or two. Each patient receives a tailored aftercare plan, and Dr. Miller’s office will schedule follow-up appointments so Dr. Miller can ensure healing is progressing correctly and quickly.

What kind of results can you expect?

After a chin reduction, your chin will be slimmer and more angular. Your facial profile will be elegant and attractive, and your overall appearance will be more symmetrical and pleasing. The nose and the chin will also be better balanced and proportional. It can take up to two months for swelling to go down completely, and six months for your final results to show.

A chin reduction is permanent, completely eliminating the need for routine fillers. Dr. Miller often sees the positive effect a genioplasty can have on a patient’s life. The self-esteem his patients gain when they love the way they look naturally spreads to other areas of their lives; Dr. Miller has seen this so often that he dubbed the phenomena 'aesthetic confidence.'

Before & After

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Is a chin reduction right for me?

Do you feel that your chin draws attention away from your face, instead of being a seamless part of it? If so, a chin reduction may be right for you. Anyone who undergoes a chin reduction should have realistic expectations, be in good overall health, and be a non-smoker. Below are some common reasons patients seek chin reductions:

Desire a vertical and/or a horizontal reduction
Have a ‘witches chin’
Chin is too wide chin
Chin is too long, protrudes, or juts out
Wish for a permanent change

Miller, the face specialist

Dr. Miller has spent his nearly 30-year career focused exclusively on facial cosmetic and reconstructive surgeries. He is double board certified in Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology/Head & Neck Surgery. Dr. Miller’s technical approach is delicate and meticulous, thanks to his extensive career and rigorous surgical training. Contact Dr. Miller’s office today to schedule your consultation!