Reduction Genioplasty (Chin Reduction Surgery)

Why Consider Reduction Genioplasty Surgery?

There are several reasons why someone may choose to have reduction genioplasty surgery. A common reason is to address a chin that appears more prominent than desired.

Reduction genioplasty can also be used to correct congenital conditions or injuries affecting the chin.

During the consultation, a 3D camera is used to take your photograph, and digital modelling can help illustrate potential surgical outcomes. Custom implants can be ordered based on your individual anatomy, and you will be shown before-and-after photos of previous patients to help understand the possible results.

The Procedure

Reduction genioplasty surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and typically takes between 1-2 hours, depending on the extent of the correction required.

During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision either inside the mouth (intraoral approach) or beneath the chin (submental approach). Through this incision, a portion of the chin bone is carefully removed or reshaped using surgical instruments. The remaining bone may be shaped to achieve the appropriate reduction in size and projection.

Once the bone has been modified, the incision is closed with sutures. In some cases, a bandage or compression garment may be applied around the chin to help reduce swelling and support healing.

The surgical approach and techniques used will be discussed during your consultation to ensure they are tailored to your individual anatomy and needs.

Potential Risks – Reduction Genioplasty

As with any surgical procedure, chin reduction surgery involves both general and procedure-specific risks. It is important to have a clear understanding of these risks when considering surgery:

• Infection at the surgical site, which may require antibiotics or further treatment
  
• Bleeding or haematoma (collection of blood under the skin or around the surgical area), which may need to be drained
  
• Scarring, usually hidden inside the mouth or under the chin, depending on the incision location
  
• Nerve injury, particularly to the mental nerve, which can cause numbness, tingling, or altered sensation in the lower lip, chin, or gums (may be temporary or, in rare cases, permanent)
  
• Asymmetry or irregular contours, especially if bone healing or swelling occurs unevenly
  
• Persistent swelling or bruising, which may take several weeks or longer to fully resolve
  
• Bone healing complications, including delayed union, improper alignment, or bone resorption (loss of bone tissue)
  
• Changes in dental or bite alignment (rare), particularly if bone movement affects jaw positioning
  
• Skin contour irregularities, especially if the overlying soft tissue does not adapt smoothly to the new bone shape
  
• Airway or speech changes, though uncommon, may occur depending on the extent of the reduction and tissue adjustment
  
• Delayed wound healing, especially in patients who smoke or have certain health conditions
  
• Anaesthesia-related risks, including allergic reactions or complications from general anaesthesia or sedation
  

Recovery and Aftercare – Reduction Genioplasty Surgery

Reduction genioplasty surgery is typically performed under general anaesthesia, and recovery can vary depending on the extent of bone reshaping. Below is a general outline of what to expect during healing:

• Swelling and bruising around the chin and lower face are common and may last several weeks
  
• Mild to moderate discomfort, pressure, or tightness in the chin and jaw area can usually be managed with prescribed or over-the-counter pain relief
  
• A compression garment or chin support may be recommended to help reduce swelling and support healing
  
• Head elevation, including when sleeping, can assist in reducing swelling during the early recovery period
  
• Numbness or altered sensation in the chin or lower lip may occur and can take several weeks or months to improve
  
• If incisions are made inside the mouth, good oral hygiene is essential to prevent infection and promote healing
  
• Soft or liquid diets may be recommended for the first few days to avoid pressure on the healing jaw
  
• Strenuous activity, including bending, lifting, or high-impact exercise, should be avoided for at least 3–4 weeks, or as directed by your surgeon
  
• Smoking and alcohol should be avoided during the healing process, as they can interfere with bone and tissue recovery
  
• Final results may take a few months to stabilise as swelling resolves and bone healing completes
  
• Follow-up appointments are crucial to monitor bone healing, check implant positioning (if applicable), and manage any complications early

If you have any questions or wish to discuss reduction genioplasty options, please contact our clinic to schedule a consultation with Dr Reema Hadi.

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