Best treatment for pointy chin/witches chin?

Question

28 year old female dropping of chin when smiling that seems to be getting worse with age. I hate my side profile because of the extra soft tissue at the end of my chin and especially hate it when I smile because it drops down. I am NOT wanting to change anything else on my entire face and I don’t really want my front view changed at all, only the end of the chin . Suggestions? Thanks so much

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns and providing a photo for evaluation. Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing what is commonly referred to as a "witch's chin," which can be characterized by a downward projection of the chin, especially noticeable when smiling.

Here are a few potential treatment options to consider:

Chin Reduction Surgery (Mentoplasty): This procedure can specifically target the excess soft tissue and muscle at the end of your chin, reshaping it to create a more balanced profile without altering the front view of your face. This surgery can effectively address the downward projection and improve your side profile.

Botox Injections: Although you mentioned previous experience with Botox without significant results, it might still be worth discussing with your practitioner. Properly administered Botox can help relax the mentalis muscle, which is responsible for the downward pull of the chin when smiling. This might require a different technique or dosage than previously tried.

Dermal Fillers: Strategic use of dermal fillers can help to subtly reshape the chin area by adding volume in specific spots, potentially reducing the appearance of downward projection. However, this approach is more about contouring and may not address significant soft tissue issues.

Submental Liposuction: If there is excess fat contributing to the appearance of a drooping chin, submental liposuction can help remove this fat, providing a more defined and lifted appearance.

Given your desire to maintain the overall appearance of your face and only modify the chin area, it is crucial to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon or a facial plastic surgeon. They can provide a thorough evaluation and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and aesthetic goals.

Best regards,

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

You have a pleasing jawline and profile appearance when you are not smiling. Your platysma muscle may be hyperactive when you smile, and depending on your examination, targeted Botox treatments may be considered if there is muscular activity pulling the soft tissue of your chin downward when you smile. I hope this is helpful. Sincerely, Dr. Joseph

Michael P. Morrissette, DDS, FACS · Answer

This a difficult problem because the worst appearance occurs when you smile or animate the muscles. It doesn't appear that the bony chin is the problem. The resting appearance of your chin can be improved with a chin tuck, platysmaplasty, and a fat pedicled transfer to reduce the deep submental crease. The dynamic changes are best treated with botox. I sometimes use deoxycholic acid to shrink the fibrofatty tissue of the chin.

Tanveer Janjua, MD · Answer

Chin reduction can help with a large protruding chin 'Witch's chin'. This is usually an abundance of soft tissue which causes a bulge. The procedure involves making an incision below the chin, accessing the extra soft tissue and removing it while taking care to preserve the muscles. Along with this some skin is removed below the chin to have a pulling effect on the chin and leading to a smaller or less protruding chin.

Regards
Dr. J

Thanapoom Boonipat, MD · Answer

Hi yes you have a pointy and very prominent chin. A genioplasty to rotate it back and shorten it slightly will make your chin fit your face, and won't cause long term issues. Your front view won't change much, depending on how we move your chin.

Best treatment for pointy chin/witches chin?

Answers (5)

Answer: Chin Reduction for Witch's Chin

Answer: Chin Reduction for Witch's Chin

Answer: Ptotic chin

Answer: Ptotic chin

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Everything you need to know about Chin Liposuction

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

Best treatment for pointy chin/witches chin?

Answers (5)

Answer: Chin Reduction for Witch's Chin

Answer: Chin Reduction for Witch's Chin

Answer: Ptotic chin

Answer: Ptotic chin

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chin Liposuction

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