Which procedure to choose for chin augmentation? (Photos)

Question

I would like to change the size/shape of my chin. Currently it's a little too small and square with a bit of a "butt" chin and it's slightly recessed. I would like to have a longer pointy chin, so I can have more of a heart shaped face (like in the last picture where I have fillers).I am leaning towards genioplasty but I'm not sure if it will allow me to reshape the chin to a pointier shape. And if I simply move it forward and down it will probably look even more masculine. I don't know if a chin implant will help with the vertical size or pointiness and I'm also concerned about implant shifting. I know someone who had to have theirs removed because of that. I also heard of Vline surgery, but not sure if it can make my chin vertically bigger. Ideally I would also like to increase my chin's horizontal projection, but I can live without it. So which procedure or combination of procedures could help me achieve the desired effect?

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

In the photos, you appear to have a deep mentolabial fold, which indicates a short chin in the vertical dimension.  The sliding genioplasty is the only procedure that can consistently lengthen the chin as well move it in the horizontal dimension. The procedure is performed in the office with sedation anesthesia, and young patients are able to return to work in 3-5 days. The surgery moves your natural chin to improve facial balance. There is no change to your bite or teeth.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

You will need both vertical and anterior projection increased. Implants that come with both components may not necessary have all available shapes and sizes but it can be adjusted with additional implant shaping in the course of surgery. Only on the basis of in person consultation and possibly 3D simulation, an experienced board certified plastic surgeon, expert in facial rejuvenation, can give you more accurate information. Good luck.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

A genioplasty is also an implant. In that procedure you get the bone cut and have 4 screws plus a metal "X" placed into the chin. The edges can be irregular and you are not really adding much volume, just moving bone around. You want a bigger chin so adding makes sense. A chin implant can be done in the office, takes 20 minutes, is fully removable if you didn't like it, and can be adjusted to meet your goals. In 25 years we've had tremendous success with these.

Alvaro Rodriguez, DDS · Answer

Thank you for your thoughtful message &mdash; you've clearly done your research and you're asking all the right questions.
Both genioplasty and custom chin implants can be used to reshape and refine the chin, but each has distinct advantages depending on your goals.
A sliding genioplasty allows us to move your chin forward and/or downward, which can improve projection and vertical height. However, you’re absolutely right &mdash; if done without aesthetic planning, this can sometimes create a more angular or masculine effect, especially in patients seeking softer, more refined contours. That said, with careful vector planning, it is possible to achieve a longer, more delicate "V-line" shape using genioplasty alone, particularly when combined with contouring of the surrounding bone or jawline.
On the other hand, a custom chin implant (like the PEEK implants I use) offers complete control over the width, projection, pointiness, and vertical height, with a softer transition and natural appearance when designed properly. Unlike off-the-shelf implants, custom designs are fitted precisely to your anatomy, reducing the risk of movement or asymmetry. When placed correctly, these implants are stable and long-lasting, and shifting is extremely rare.
V-line surgery is more common in East Asian aesthetic surgery and typically involves narrowing the jaw angle and reducing chin width. While it can contribute to a more heart-shaped face, it may not offer the same control over vertical length as genioplasty or implants.
In many cases, a combination approach &mdash; such as a small genioplasty for structure and a custom implant for finesse &mdash; can provide the most balanced and feminine result.
I'd love to learn more about your case and goals in detail to guide you toward the best option. Your vision is clear, and with the right plan, it’s absolutely achievable.
Warmly,Dr. Alvaro Rodriguez

Which procedure to choose for chin augmentation? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Genioplasty vs. Custom Chin Implants

Answer: Genioplasty vs. Custom Chin Implants

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Everything you need to know about Genioplasty

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Which procedure to choose for chin augmentation? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Genioplasty vs. Custom Chin Implants

Answer: Genioplasty vs. Custom Chin Implants

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Genioplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.