I Have a Weak Chin - Do I Need a Chin Implant or Jaw Surgery?

When I was younger I had an 80% overbite. After 4 years of braces my teeth/overbite isn't as pronounced. But it isn't as good as I want it to be. Especially my profile- I have a weak chin & my upper and lower teeth don't connect properly, so my mouth is partially open. I'm more interested in getting a stronger jawline & chin, but would it be possible to sharpen/fix my profile AND fix my bite in one surgery? Or would a chin implant be better? What is the approximate cost of these procedures?

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Eimes in Melbourne

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Fixing chin projection and tooth malocclusion in one surgery

It is possible to fix both your chin projection and tooth allignment in one surgery. This would involve orthognathic surgery. It's usually performed by either an oral surgeon or craniofacial surgeon. You should ask your dentist who he or she would recommend. Chin implants or sliding genioplasty alone can help with your chin appearance but wouldn't do anything to change how your teeth come together.

Chin Implant Easier, But Goals Are More Limited

Dear Eimes: From your photographs, you are correct in thinking that your profile and facial appearance would be improved by a more prominent chin. Chin implant placement is a relatively limited procedure, which can improve the "weak chin." This procedure does not correct underlying mandibular problems or deformities. Since you describe prior orthodontic treatment and incomplete closure, I suspect that you have rather significant growth or development... more

A chin implant will improve your profile but will not fix your bite

A chin implant will improve your profile but will not fix your bite. I agree with Dr. Beraka that jaw surgery is a major procedure. However, this is what is necessary to both fix your bite and improve the appearance of your chin. These procedures are typically performed by Oral Maxillofacial Surgeons. The advantage of undergoing the larger jaw procedure, as opposed to just a chin implant, is that this should repair your occlusion (bite) and this will lead to better long term dental health as... more

Chin implant is safer and simpler than jaw surgery.

Hi. 1) You look like you will do great with an anatomical chin implant (really mandibular implant). It takes thirty minutes under local anesthesia with a little sedation, it is very safe, there is no visible scar, there is little pain, you look and feel fine in a few days, and the results with good surgery can be spectacular. Jaw surgery is major. 2) A chin implant will not improve how your teeth come together, but that does not look bad. 3) I am afraid I... more

Orthognathic surgery for bite first!

If your teeth don't fit together well your best bet will be to start with a maxillofacial surgeon to determine if you are a candidate for orthognathic surgery. With jaw advancement and re-alignment, your functional issues (and often cosmetic!) can be improved. However, you may still require a chin implant after the final position of the bone has been set, based on your desired appearance. Good luck!