What are the pros and cons of a chin implant vs genioplasty?

Thank you for your question. A chin implant is an optimal choice for adding projection to the jawline, and in some cases, the jawbone can also be moved forward to optimize results and provide a harmonious balance to the face.
Chin implants, particularly those made of silicone, are easy to customize in shape and size to accentuate an individual’s other facial features. I recommend scheduling an in-person consultation with an experienced, board-certified facial plastic surgeon who can suggest the best approach to help you achieve your cosmetic goals.

Genioplasties are newer in the field of cosmetic surgery, and only a handful of trained surgeons actually provide them. In general, chin implants are easier which is why more people offer them. However, the benefits of a genioplasty are greater than those of an implant. A genioplasty is a permanent solution for a chin augmentation and is more versatile because it allows us to place the chin wherever we need to in order to achieve the desired results. In most cases, people are looking for more projection and definition, which is easily achievable with a genioplasty. It elongates the jawline as well, creating more balance to one's profile. Another great aspect of a genioplasty is that the procedure is fairly predictable, and allows for better outcomes. As for implants, there is a chance of the implant itself becoming displaced or moving. They can also become encapsulated and create scar tissue that ends up creating some disturbances in the skin. Needless to say that if it needs to be removed, it creates some laxity and dimpling of the skin, there it has been stretched out. Overall, genioplasties are a preferred solution for a chin augmentation.

Both chin implants and genioplasty are viable alternatives for a recessed chin. There are differences and advantages for both procedures. Large horizontal chin deficiencies will obtain a better result with a genioplasty since the chin can moved up to 9-10 mm. In addition, vertical lengthening is better achieved with a genioplasty. Chin implant surgery is good when limited horizontal advancement is needed. The recovery is faster with a chin implant. Most plastic surgeons do not perform genioplasties on a regular basis and therefore prefer chin implants. Most maxillofacial surgeons are trained to perform genioplasties as part of their residency.

Thank you for your question. The reason most surgeons perform implants instead is that the implant can be removed or a different size placed should adjustments need to be made. Moreover, the surgery is less invasive as there is no sawing of bone. I hope this information is helpful to you, and all the best.
-Dr. P

Hi there! Great question. Chin implants are relatively straight-forward procedures that can be done via incisions inside the mouth or below the chin. The bone is not manipulated and the implant placed within a pocket. Implants are available in varying sizes making picking easier. Genioplasty involves bone cuts with measurements and puts the mental nerve at higher risk. Also, plating is involved using titanium plates and screws. Many surgeons are not trained and/or comfortable with the thought of cutting the jaw to create permanent change. The results can be quite nice and permanent. Hope this helps!

A sliding genioplasty is performed by an oral surgeon under general anesthesia in the hospital setting with an overnight stay at the hospital, since it is quite invasive. The procedure is usually performed when patients have teeth that are significantly out of alignment.
Placement of a chin implant is done under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure which takes approximately 30 minutes. Chin implants are placed for purely cosmetic purposes to augment the chin forward

Sliding genioplasty is more commonly performed by oral surgeons. If you’ve only been consulting with plastic surgeons and you may want to also consider talking to some oral surgeons in your community. Oral surgeons tend to be more focused on facial skeletal issues while plastic surgeons tend to be more soft tissue oriented.
Both procedures have advantages and disadvantages. If you haven’t consulted with a few oral surgeons then try that to get insight into the sliding genioplasty.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Reasonable question for sure. The use of chin implants is much simpler and requires less 'training/expertise' compared to chin implants. Unfortunately, implants are not always the best option since they do not have a 3 dimensional effect; cause the underlying bone to 'resorb/loss volume'; and can even shift if not 'pinned' in place. Further a genioplasty will lengthen the muscle under the chin (much like you posturing your jaw forward) and therefore flatten the 'under chin area'. But good surgeons can use either; dependent upon your bone growth pattern