Genioplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the chin bone. During the procedure, the surgeon cuts a section of the chin bone, moves it to a new position, and stabilizes it with plates and screws. This technique can adjust chin projection, length, height, or symmetry without placing an artificial implant in the chin area.
What is genioplasty?
Genioplasty is a chin bone reshaping procedure in which the surgeon cuts a section of the chin bone and then moves it forward, backward, upward, downward, or in another appropriate direction before stabilizing it with plates and screws. Because the procedure uses the patient’s own chin bone, no artificial implant is required to reshape the chin.
Before surgery, the doctor performs an in-person examination and evaluates the relationship between the chin, lips, nose, jaw, and overall facial proportions. When a more detailed assessment of the bone structure is needed, 3D Cone Beam CT (3D CT) may be recommended to support surgical planning and determine the appropriate direction and degree of bone movement.
What concerns can genioplasty address?
Genioplasty can help address a range of concerns related to the position and shape of the chin bone.
Receding chin
When the chin is positioned backward or lacks projection due to the underlying bone structure, the surgeon can move the chin bone forward.
Long chin
The surgeon can shorten the chin bone to improve the proportions of the lower face.
Protruding chin
A chin that projects too far forward in profile may appear disproportionate to the lips and nose. Depending on the underlying structure, the surgeon can reposition the chin bone backward to achieve a more balanced position.
Short chin
For a short chin caused by the underlying bone structure, genioplasty may increase the vertical length of the chin in proportion to the face.
Wide or broad chin
Depending on the cause and bone anatomy, the surgeon may combine genioplasty with chin bone contouring or reduction.
Asymmetrical chin
When the asymmetry originates from the position or shape of the chin bone, the surgeon can adjust the direction and position of the bone segment to improve balance in the lower third of the face.
The goal of genioplasty is to adjust the chin bone in three-dimensional space to create better balance between the upper, middle, and lower thirds of the face.
Genioplasty procedure
To perform surgery safely and achieve a high level of precision, the procedure requires appropriate technology and the surgeon’s expertise.
1. Consultation and surgical planning
2. Preparation and anesthesia
3. Surgical access and bone cutting
4. Bone repositioning and stabilization
5. Incision closure and post-operative monitoring
For a detailed explanation of each step, from consultation and 3D CT imaging to surgical planning and post-operative care, readers can refer to the genioplasty procedure article.
Benefits and limitations of genioplasty
1. Benefits of genioplasty
- Directly adjusts the chin bone: It may be suitable when the concern is related to the underlying bone structure.
- Can provide multidimensional adjustment: Depending on the case, it may change projection, height, length, or symmetry.
- Uses the patient’s own bone: No artificial implant is required for the primary chin reshaping.
- Can be personalized: The surgical plan is developed based on the patient’s bone structure and facial proportions.
- Provides long-term results: Once the bone heals and stabilizes, the result does not require regular maintenance with additional fillers.
2. Limitations and risks of genioplasty
Direct surgery on the chin bone
Unlike fillers or some procedures that primarily affect soft tissue, genioplasty requires cutting and repositioning a section of the chin bone.
Recovery time is required
Swelling, pain, changes in sensation, and temporary dietary restrictions may occur during the initial recovery period. The bone continues to heal and remodel during the months following surgery.
Because the surgical area is close to nerves that provide sensation to the lower lip and chin, some patients may experience changes in sensation after surgery.
Possible complications
Potential complications may include infection, hematoma, problems with bone healing, displacement of the bone segment, or an outcome that does not meet expectations.
Not suitable for every case
If the concern primarily involves soft tissue or the lack of chin projection does not require bone surgery, the doctor may consider another treatment option.
Frequently asked questions about genioplasty
Is genioplasty painful?
Answer: During surgery, an appropriate form of anesthesia is used. After surgery, swelling, pain, or a feeling of tightness may occur during the initial recovery period.
Is genioplasty dangerous?
Answer: Genioplasty is a bone surgery and therefore carries certain risks. The level of risk depends on the individual’s condition, the indication, the technique used, surgical conditions, and post-operative care.
Is genioplasty permanent?
Answer: Once the repositioned bone heals and stabilizes, the result is long-lasting. However, facial appearance may still change over time due to aging and other biological factors.
Do I need a 3D CT scan before genioplasty?
Answer: A 3D CT scan can help the doctor assess the bone structure and support surgical planning. Whether it is needed depends on the clinical examination and each patient’s individual condition.
Which is better: genioplasty or chin augmentation?
Answer: There is no single procedure that is best for everyone. The choice depends on the bone structure, the degree of chin retrusion or shortness, and the desired correction.
Where is genioplasty performed?
Answer: Patients should choose a licensed medical facility with an appropriate scope of practice for the procedure. Under Dr Huan’s treatment process, genioplasty is performed at Bac Ha International General Hospital in Hanoi.
Genioplasty is a chin bone reshaping technique that can adjust the projection, length, and position of the chin according to the individual’s facial structure. However, not every short, receding, or asymmetrical chin requires genioplasty. The choice of technique should be based on an in-person examination and an assessment of the underlying bone structure.
If you are considering genioplasty but are unsure whether your concern originates from the underlying bone structure, you can book a consultation with Dr Nguyen Duy Huan for a direct assessment and advice on an appropriate treatment option.
WhatsApp +84916 262 888 / +84986 258 118
- Medical review: Dr Nguyen Duy Huan
- Last updated: 03/09/2026
Note: The information above is provided for reference only and does not replace an in-person medical examination, diagnosis, or recommendation from a doctor.
MSc, MD, Dr Huan has more than 20 years of experience in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. He currently serves as Head of the Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery Unit within the Department of Surgery at Bac Ha International General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam.
