I don't want a long chin, is sliding genioplasty revision risky? (Photos)

Question

I had sliding genioplasty and now my chin is really long. I didn't expect a vertically long chin at all. And my lower lip droops and doesn't cover bottom teeth. My surgeon says it is risky to make a revision but I don't want to live with a long chin. It wasn't that long before. I want my chin to move upwards. Is it possible? Is it risky? Please help. :(

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

Yes - revisions are tricky unless you do these regularly.We do about 3-5 of these each week (jaw shaping surgeries).  It should be something we can readily do to adjust your chin.We'd need to see you in person, however, to look at what was done.See our videos to learn more.

Bryan Rolfes, MD · Answer

Sally, While any surgery has risks, revision of jaw surgery can typically be done with a reasonable degree of safety after enough time has passed for the bone to heal (I typically recommend at least a year but that varies with patient age and distance the bone has been advanced).  Some individuals may have anatomical variations or other complicating factors that add more risk to their revision, and your surgeon can advise you on your specific risks.  Generally, chin augmentation is a more common request than chin reduction, so most surgeons have less experience with reduction.  There are some niche surgeons who do a lot of reductions (for instance I specialize in surgery for transgender women who often want jaw reductions) and you can also consult one of them to see if they have any techniques available that would reduce your risks to an acceptable level.  -Dr. Rolfes

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

A sliding genioplasty revision is no more risky than the original surgery and is the only way you are going to get a vertically shorter chin. Technically it has less risk than the original surgery since the bone cut line has already been established.

Gerald Wittenberg, MSc, DMD (retired) · Answer

Firstly, a revision genioplasty is very possible in experienced hands. However, you should also note that most 'chin surgeries' will 'look' like the face is longer, when the lower jaw is narrow. This is noticed more from the 'front/mirror' since the facial shape appears longer when the 'back/ramus' of the lower jaw is less defined. Reducing the 'height' does not always achieve the result you prefer. Talk to the surgeon to ensure you consider all factors before any revision to ensure you understand the possibilities.

I don't want a long chin, is sliding genioplasty revision risky? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Genioplasty and facial length

Answer: Genioplasty and facial length

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I don't want a long chin, is sliding genioplasty revision risky? (Photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Genioplasty and facial length

Answer: Genioplasty and facial length

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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.