Advice on chin and jawline definition - filler or a surgical approach? (Photos)

Question

I’ve saved up some money and would like to address a long-standing concern I have with my lower face, specifically my soft jawline and lack of definition. I’m 27, 5’8 and relatively slim. I’ve always felt that my chin lacks projection, which causes my jawline to blend into my neck. I’ve been considering chin filler as a possible option and would really appreciate a professional opinion on whether this would be suitable for my anatomy, or whether a surgical approach would be more appropriate for achieving a stronger, more defined jawline. I’m looking for an honest assessment of what’s realistic and most effective

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your photo and providing detailed context. I can see exactly what you mean about your lower face—the chin appears slightly recessed relative to the jawline, which makes the jawline less defined and creates a softer transition into the neck.

For someone in your situation, both non-surgical and surgical options can help, but they work differently:

1. Chin filler (non-surgical option):

Dermal fillers can add projection to the chin and help create a more defined jawline.

The results are immediate, adjustable, and reversible if needed.

You can achieve subtle but noticeable improvement, improving balance between your lower face and neck.

Keep in mind that fillers don’t reduce soft tissue under the chin, so in cases with extra fat or lax skin, the jawline might still appear softer.

2. Surgical chin augmentation (implant or sliding genioplasty):

This is a permanent solution that can significantly improve projection and balance for someone with a recessed chin.

Surgery allows for more dramatic definition and can reshape the jawline in a way fillers cannot.

Recovery takes longer, and there are surgical risks, but the long-term results tend to be more dramatic and consistent.

Practical takeaways for you:

Since your concern is primarily projection and lower face balance, a filler trial can be a very helpful first step. It allows you to see how much improvement you like before committing to surgery.

If your goal is a more dramatic, permanent change, or if you have excess tissue or laxity that fillers cannot correct, a surgical approach is usually the most effective for a truly defined jawline.

Your anatomy is very favorable for either approach—slim face, good bone structure—but the main limitation with filler is how much definition can be achieved without overfilling. Many people start with fillers and then decide if surgery is worth it later.

Viva Eve Dermatology - New York · Answer

Hi there!
This is a great question. You are relatively young and through these pictures, seems as though your chin, lips, and nose are actually very proportionate in these profile photos. I do see the area of your concern, which may actually be addressed using neck Botox. Neck Botox (also called a nefertiti neck lift) can be utilized to lessen the pull of the neck muscles on the lower face, contributing to a sharper jawline and more defined delineation. If you are a candidate, proceeding with Botox would be first, then filler can be placed after the Botox settles, about 2 weeks after, if more jawline contour is needed. I believe that you can achieve an amazing result without the need for surgical intervention. 
An in depth, in person evaluation of your anatomy is required for this treatment, and to formulate a plan that works best for you.

Advice on chin and jawline definition - filler or a surgical approach? (Photos)

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