Refining the Lower Face
Chin narrowing, or narrowing genioplasty, is a procedure designed to reshape the width and contour of the chin.
Within facial feminisation surgery, it can help create a more tapered and balanced lower face, reducing width and softening the transition between the chin and jawline.
Why This Procedure Is Considered
The width and shape of the chin play an important role in the overall appearance of the lower face.
A broader or more square chin can contribute to:
- A wider lower facial contour
- A more angular, masculine appearance
- Imbalance between the chin and mid-face
Chin narrowing may be appropriate if you are looking to:
- Reduce the width of the chin
- Create a more tapered or V-shaped feminine lower face
- Improve the relationship between chin and jawline
- Achieve a more balanced and harmonious facial contour
How the Procedure Works
Narrowing genioplasty is performed under general anaesthetic.
- The chin bone is carefully divided in a controlled manner
- A central segment of bone may be adjusted or repositioned
- The remaining segments are brought together to reduce width
- The bone is stabilised with small fixation plates and screws
All incisions are typically made inside the mouth, avoiding visible external scars.
Recovery
Recovery is similar to other chin procedures.
- Swelling is expected and gradually settles over several weeks
- Some tightness or numbness may occur initially
- Most patients return to normal activities within a few weeks
Follow-up ensures healing and stability progress appropriately.
Results
As swelling settles, the lower face appears:
- More tapered and refined in contour
- Less broad across the chin
- Better balanced with the jawline and mid-face
The result is structural but designed to integrate naturally, without an obvious or overcorrected appearance.
A Personalised Approach
The ideal chin shape varies between individuals, and small changes can have a significant impact.
Careful planning ensures:
- The degree of narrowing is proportionate
- The chin remains natural in shape and support
- The result complements the entire face
Adjustments can also be combined with forward or vertical movement if needed.
Chin Narrowing vs Standard Genioplasty
Both procedures involve repositioning the chin, but with different goals.
Narrowing genioplasty
- Reduces the width of the chin
- Creates a more tapered contour
- Focuses on shaping the lower face
Standard (sliding) genioplasty
- Primarily alters projection and height
- Addresses forward or backward positioning
- May also be combined with narrowing where appropriate
In many cases, both approaches are combined to achieve the desired overall balance.
Chin Narrowing vs Non-Surgical Treatments
Non-surgical treatments have limited ability to change chin width.
Dermal fillers
- Add volume but cannot reduce width
- May increase prominence rather than refine contour
- Suitable only for minor adjustments
Narrowing genioplasty
- Directly reshapes the bone
- Reduces width in a controlled and permanent way
- Provides a more definitive change where needed
A detailed assessment ensures the appropriate approach is selected.
Combination with Other Procedures
Chin narrowing is often performed alongside:
- Mandibular angle reduction
- Jaw contouring
- Other facial feminisation procedures
Combining treatments allows the lower face to be addressed as a whole, improving overall balance.
Consultation
A detailed consultation allows discussion of your goals, assessment of chin shape and facial proportions, and development of a tailored treatment plan.
Book a Consultation
For narrowing genioplasty as part of facial feminisation surgery in London, arrange a consultation to explore your options and develop a personalised approach.