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Are You Struggling with a Recessed Chin?

  • Writer: Dr. Park
    Dr. Park
  • Dec 18, 2024
  • 3 min read

A recessed chin, where the chin appears short and the face looks flat, can create the appearance of a protruding upper lip. This condition, often referred to as a "weak chin," can be addressed effectively through surgery.

There are two primary surgical options for correcting a recessed chin:

  1. Chin Implant Insertion

  2. Chin Advancement Surgery (Genioplasty)

But how do you determine which procedure is the right fit for you?

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Specialist Dr. Jong Chul Park provides an objective comparison of the pros and cons of both procedures, while answering frequently asked questions from patients.


Is a Chin Implant Insufficient for Severe Recessed Chins?
무턱전진술시 고려할 사항
Chin Advancement Surgery (Genioplasty)

When addressing severe cases of a recessed chin, the common belief is that genioplasty is the better option. However, this may not always hold true. For significantly recessed chins, bone advancement might face limitations.

The issue lies in bone contact: if the repositioned chin bone does not sufficiently overlap with the existing structure, bone fusion becomes difficult.

무턱 수술 보형물 삽입
Chin Implant Insertion

In contrast, chin implants are not constrained by bone size and can be used to add volume as needed, making them a highly effective solution even for severe cases.


Concerns About Chin Line Irregularities After Genioplasty

Genioplasty involves repositioning the chin bone forward. However, this movement may lead to discrepancies in the vertical and horizontal dimensions of the mandibular body, potentially resulting in a less harmonious appearance. To address this, a bone graft can be added to the mandibular body, creating a smoother and more natural chin line.

수평적 수직적 체부볼륨개선을 위한 골이식
Genioplasty may require additional bone grafting for a seamless appearance.
수평적 수직적 체부볼륨개선을 위한 골이식후 연조직 이미지
Genioplasty may require additional bone grafting for a seamless appearance.

 


Will Chin Implants Affect My Smile?

Chin implants are designed to ensure a natural appearance, even during facial expressions such as smiling. For instance, a patient who underwent a 9mm chin implant surgery exhibited no unnatural changes to their smile post-surgery.

무턱 수술 보형물 삽입 술전 술후 표정변화
Will Chin Implants Affect My Smile?

 


Are Chin Implants Uncomfortable?

While there may be some initial discomfort, such as a sense of tightness, fullness, or tension in the chin, these sensations typically diminish over time. Among patients treated by Dr. Park, none have required implant removal due to discomfort or inflammation.


Do Chin Implants Look Less Natural Than Genioplasty?

Genioplasty, which uses the patient’s own bone, offers the advantage of being highly biocompatible. However, chin implants can also achieve a natural aesthetic when properly executed. Modern chin implants are designed with safety and natural aesthetics in mind, utilizing biocompatible materials to ensure long-term results.


Chin Implant vs. Genioplasty: How to Choose?

The choice between a chin implant and genioplasty ultimately depends on the desired chin shape and volume. Key considerations include:

  • Complexity and Recovery Time: Chin implants involve a simpler surgical process with a shorter recovery period.

  • Biocompatibility: For patients seeking the most biologically harmonious solution, genioplasty is preferable.


Factors to Consider:

  1. Severe Recessed Chin: Chin implants offer greater volume and flexibility, especially when bone advancement is limited due to bone contact.

  2. Natural Chin Contour: Genioplasty may require additional bone grafting for a seamless appearance.

  3. Recovery and Procedure Simplicity: Chin implants are minimally invasive and heal faster.

  4. Material Compatibility: Genioplasty is the most biocompatible option, using the patient’s natural bone.

    맞춤형보형물디자인
    맞춤형보형물디자인
    무턱 수술, 보형물 vs 전진술: 구강악안면외과 전문의가 답변드립니다
    Are You Struggling with a Recessed Chin?

Conclusion

Both chin implant surgery and genioplasty have their unique advantages and limitations. Neither is inherently superior, as the choice depends on the patient’s condition, preferences, and desired outcomes.

A thorough consultation with a qualified oral and maxillofacial surgeon is essential to determine the optimal treatment plan tailored to your needs.


Are You Struggling with a Recessed Chin

 
 
 

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