Chin reduction is reducing the size of natural tissues to reach a balanced facial feature. A well defined chin is an essential component of a balanced face. Chin reduction is preferred by those with a chin that juts out or otherwise too prominent for the rest of the facial features.

Candidates for chin reduction are those who feel that their chin is our of proportion with the rest of their features. Chin reduction can be combined with nose operation in order to achieve the best available proportion in the facial features. The size of the chin can significantly impact the apparent size of the nose. Apart from the aesthetic benefits, chin surgeries may also be performed for medical reasons, such as repairing a birth defect or damage due to trauma. Good candidates for this procedure have specific goals regarding how they want the appearance of their chin to be changed. In general, the best candidates are adults who are at or near a healthy weight and who are in good overall health.
 

The following provides an overview of how these chin procedures are performed:

1. General anesthesia is administered.
2. The surgeon begins with an incision either in the natural crease along the jawline or inside the mouth.
3. For chin reduction surgery, the surgeon trims the bone to a size that is more aesthetically pleasing. Excess fat and other soft tissues may be removed as well. If the chin is set too far back, the surgeon may re-position the bone, bringing it forward.
4. Once all of the surgical work is complete, the incision is closed with sutures.

A chin reduction surgery may also be done at the same time as other facial procedures such as a face lift, neck lift or blepharoplasty.

After chin surgery, the area is covered by a surgical dressing. For the first week to ten days of recovery, expect to feel some degree of swelling, redness, and bruising, along with tenderness and discomfort. Your ability to chew will be limited, requiring a liquid or soft food diet for a few days. You may also experience discomfort when speaking, yawning, or otherwise moving your mouth. Many patients find that their chin feels tight or stretched. This sensation usually subsides within a week. Patients are typically able to return daily activities in about a week.