Chin Reduction Surgery London
Chin Reduction
The chin plays a significant part in the balance and overall aesthetics of the face. A chin that is too prominent, projecting too far forward, sitting too long, or too wide and heavy, draws attention in profile and disrupts the flow of the surrounding features. For many people, reducing the prominence of the chin brings the rest of the face into better proportion.
Chin reduction surgery, also known as reduction genioplasty, chin shaving, or reduction mentoplasty, is a form of chin surgery designed to address these concerns. This chin reshaping reduces the projection, height or width of the chin so that it sits in balance with the other facial features. Depending on the anatomy involved, treatment can range from gentle shaving to more involved reshaping of the bone and soft tissue, with each treatment tailored to the individual.
Chin Reduction Surgery London
The Procedure: At a Glance
Procedure Length:
Typically 1-2 hours
Cost:
Anaesthesia:
General anaesthesia, delivered by one of our consultant anaesthetists
Hospital Stay:
An overnight stay may be required, depending on the extent of the procedure
Downtime:
Normal activities can resume within 7-10 days
Eating:
A soft diet for the first week, as the incision sits inside the mouth
Showering:
Avoid for at least 48 hours post-surgery
Sleeping:
Sleep with your head elevated for the first few nights to reduce swelling
Exercise:
Light walking from a few days; no strenuous exercise, gym or contact sport for 4-6 weeks
Make-Up:
Avoid application to the surgical area for 1-2 weeks
Driving:
Avoid driving for at least 5-7 3-5 days post-surgery, or until off pain medications
Smoking:
Avoid smoking for at least 2 weeks before and 2 4 weeks after surgery
Direct Sun Exposure:
Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 4-6 6 weeks post-surgery. Use SPF 30+ when outdoors
Follow-up:
Reviewed in clinic at one week and again at six weeks, with 24-hour nurse access in between
Benefits of Chin Reduction Surgery
Chin reduction surgery can offer a range of benefits, tailored to your goals and anatomy. The main advantages include:
Improved Facial Profile
A prominent or overly large chin can dominate the side profile. Reducing chin projection restores a more balanced, symmetrical, and proportionate appearance, refining the definition of the chin so it sits in harmony with the nose, lips, and jawline.
Smooth Chin Contour
Beyond size and projection, the surgical procedure refines the surface of the chin itself. Reshaping smooths away irregularities and creates a soft, natural transition between the chin and the rest of the face.
Softer, More Balanced Features
By reducing the chin size and refining the chin and jawline together, the procedure can soften a heavier, more masculine chin into a delicate, balanced silhouette. This is often part of facial feminisation surgery, where softening a prominent male chin is a frequent goal, though the same principles apply to anyone seeking softer contours.
A Feature That No Longer Draws Your Attention
Many patients say the value of the operation lies less in the change itself than in no longer thinking about a feature they had been conscious of for years.
Chin Reduction Procedure Steps
The technique used during your procedure is determined at your initial consultation, based on your anatomy and goals. For most patients, chin reduction is an outpatient procedure, though some cases may require an overnight stay for observation. Day cases and overnight stays are carried out at accredited London hospitals, confirmed with you in advance.
Anaesthesia
The first step is to administer anaesthesia, a combination of medicines that keeps you comfortable during surgery. Because of the nature of the procedure, it is usually performed under general anaesthetic, administered by an anaesthetist, one of a small, named team of consultant anaesthetists Mr Yapa works with, whom you will meet before surgery. This means you are asleep and feel no pain throughout the operation.
Making The Incisions
To reach the chin bone, Mr Kshem Yapa makes a primary incision inside the mouth, beneath the front teeth, which keeps any scarring hidden. Occasionally, a small additional incision is made beneath the chin, known as a submental incision, where better access or a specific technique is needed.
Reshaping The Chin
With the area exposed, Mr Yapa reshapes the chin with precision instruments. For a subtler change, this means shaving layers from the bone to reduce its projection or smooth its contour. For larger changes, it means an osteotomy, in which a segment of bone is removed, and the chin repositioned to set both its height and its projection in relation to the lower lip. Where the prominence comes from soft tissue rather than bone, the bone is left untouched, and the excess tissue is reduced instead. Throughout, the nerve supplying sensation to the lower lip is identified and protected.
Suturing And Closure
Once the desired shape is achieved, Mr Yapa closes the overlying tissue with small sutures. The muscle over the chin is carefully reattached before the lining of the mouth is closed, which is what keeps the soft tissue sitting smoothly over the reduced bone. Sutures inside the mouth dissolve on their own. This helps the wound heal neatly, with scarring kept to a minimum.
Chin Reduction Risks and Complications
Every cosmetic surgery procedure carries risks, and while Mr Yapa takes every precaution to keep you safe, it is important to be informed of potential complications. Most complications after chin reduction are uncommon, and the majority are manageable and temporary. The points to be aware of include:
Numbness of the Lower Lip and Chin
The nerve supplying sensation to the lower lip and chin runs close to the operative field. Numbness or altered sensation in the lower lip and chin is common in the early weeks and settles as the nerve recovers, though in a small number of patients, some altered sensation is long-lasting.
Haematoma
Blood can occasionally collect in the wound after surgery. Where it does not resolve on its own, it may need medical or surgical attention.
Seroma
A collection of clear fluid may form within the surgical site and may require drainage or monitoring until it settles.
Wound Infection
Infection is uncommon but possible at the surgical site. Where it occurs, it is typically treated with a course of antibiotics. You will be given an antiseptic mouthwash to keep the incision inside the mouth clean while it heals.
Soft Tissue Sagging Over the Chin
Reducing the bone leaves the soft tissue covering it with less support. If it is not re-suspended properly, or occasionally despite this, the soft tissue can sit lower than intended, producing a soft fullness beneath the chin. This is why the muscle layer is repaired carefully at closure, and where it does occur, it can usually be corrected with a further minor procedure.
Where Bone Is Repositioned
Where an osteotomy is used, the bone is fixed with small titanium plates and screws that stay in place permanently and are not usually felt, though they can occasionally be removed once healing is complete. There is also a rare risk of injury to a tooth root.
Undesirable Outcomes
There can be instances of asymmetry, under-correction, or a result that does not fully match expectations for chin shape or projection. Bone that has been removed cannot be replaced, so reduction is planned conservatively and confirmed against your photographs and measurements beforehand.
Scarring
Although incisions are placed in discreet locations, there is always some risk of scarring, which varies from patient to patient.
Chin Reduction Recovery
After chin reduction surgery, it is important to give yourself time to rest and recover at home. We recommend taking 7-10 days off work for a comfortable recovery, away from the pressures of daily routines. In the first few days, some swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are normal, and these generally fade within a couple of weeks. A soft diet is easier for the first week, and you will be asked to keep the incision inside the mouth clean with an antiseptic mouthwash without brushing directly over it.
As the general anaesthesia wears off, typically within a few hours, gentle movement, such as walking, is encouraged, as it helps reduce swelling and support circulation. Because of the residual effects of anaesthesia and the discomfort felt afterwards, we recommend arranging for someone to drive you home from the hospital.
Most patients feel ready to resume normal activities within 7-10 days, with swelling continuing to settle until the final result emerges over the following weeks. Numbness of the lower lip is common during this period and settles gradually. Strenuous exercise should wait until 4-6 weeks. Mr Yapa will provide a personalised recovery plan and monitor your progress throughout.
Every surgical patient receives access to our dedicated 24-hour support team, led by our experienced cosmetic nurse. For any question, advice, or reassurance, the team is a phone call away at any hour. Our commitment to your care continues well beyond the clinic, throughout your recovery.
Book your consultation
If you would like to discuss this procedure in detail and understand if it’s the right procedure for your goals, book a consultation with Mr Kshem Yapa.
“I feel fantastic, look fantastic and natural. I can’t praise Mr Yapa enough. From the moment I met him I felt I am in good hands. I had many questions and he was always happy to provide answers and advice. He is very knowledgeable, professional and caring for his patients.”
Facelift patient
“Fantastic experience that I couldn’t fault what so ever! From the consultation to the operation to the anaesthetist and to the after-care has been nothing but exceptional, Dr Yapa an amazing Surgeon who achieves exactly what you ask for. I would have no hesitation what so ever recommending him to anyone.”
Browlift and upper blepharoplasty patient
“Mr Yapa understood what I wanted and went above and beyond to make it happen. During our consultation, I wanted a slight change in my nose, not to be a swoop just straight and he did just that. He understood what I wanted and just went above and beyond for it. This beyond what I expected. He is an amazing, empathetic surgeon.”
Rhinoplasty patient
“Mr Yapa completely changed my life – I can finally wear my hair up!
I would highly recommend considering this surgical procedure with Mr Yapa because my ears were completely different due to the shape of my ears and one stuck out more. I am unbelievably amazed by the outcome of the surgery and how my ears now look. “
Prominent Ear Correction patient
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Chin Reduction FAQs
How much does chin reduction surgery in London cost?
The cost of chin reduction surgery varies depending on the complexity of your procedure and any additional treatments, such as liposuction, that are included. Chin reduction surgery starts from £7,950. This cost includes the surgeon’s fee, hospital, anaesthetist, and equipment, and your consultation includes a full breakdown so you receive a clear and personalised quote before making any decision.
How can I reduce a prominent chin?
If a prominent chin is a source of self-consciousness, chin reduction surgery, also known as chin shaving, may be the right option. The procedure reshapes the bone and soft tissue s to remove the excess that contributes to a heavy profile, creating a more improved facial balance and harmonious result. Each surgery is tailored to your individual facial structure and aesthetic goals, for results that look natural and complement your overall appearance.
Does chin reduction surgery get rid of excess fat?
Chin reduction primarily focuses on reshaping the chin bone, but when excess fat around the chin is also a concern, it can be addressed at the same time. Procedures such as liposuction can be combined with chin reduction to achieve a slimmer, more refined result. At your consultation, Mr Yapa will assess your needs and recommend the right combination of treatments for your desired outcome.
What is the difference between mentoplasty and genioplasty?
The two terms overlap and are often used interchangeably. Mentoplasty is the broader term for reshaping the chin, whether by chin augmentation or reduction, and whether the change involves bone or soft tissue. Genioplasty refers specifically to work on the chin bone itself, removing, reshaping or repositioning it. What matters more than the label is what your chin actually needs, which Mr Yapa will set out at your consultation.
Who is a good candidate for chin reduction surgery?
People consider chin reduction for different reasons. Some are born with a prominent or elongated chin, known as macrogenia, others have experienced trauma that altered the shape, and some have excess fat around the area. It can also help a wide chin, a long chin, a chin that projects too far outward, or a bifurcated, bifid, or cleft chin. Good candidates are in good overall health, at a stable weight, and are non-smokers or willing to stop smoking before surgery. Where the prominence comes from the position of the jaw rather than the chin itself, Mr Yapa will say so and may recommend an orthodontic and orthognathic opinion instead.
What surgical techniques are used for chin reduction?
There are three main techniques, which are sometimes combined:
- An osteotomy, related to the bone repositioning used in orthognathic surgery, involves removing and repositioning a portion of the chin bone, allowing for more significant reductions.
- Chin shaving, or sculpting, reshapes the bone without removing a segment and suits a subtler change to the chin with a shorter recovery.
- Soft tissue reduction addresses prominence from excess tissue rather than bone.
Mr Yapa will confirm the most suitable technique at your consultation.
Can chin reduction be combined with other procedures?
We offer chin reduction both on its own and combined with other facial procedures to enhance overall balance and harmony. Liposuction can address excess fat beneath the chin, while facial fat grafting can restore volume elsewhere and establish symmetry. It can also complement procedures such as rhinoplasty. Mr Yapa will advise on the right combination for your goals and anatomy at your consultation.
How do I prepare for chin reduction surgery?
Mr Yapa will provide a tailored preparation plan following your consultation. In general, it helps to stop smoking for at least two weeks before surgery to support healing, maintain good nutrition and hydration, and pause any medicines or supplements he advises against in the lead-up to your procedure. It is also worth arranging a few days a week or so away from work and organising support at home for the early days of recovery.
How long does it take to recover from chin reduction surgery?
Recovery is a gradual process, and most people feel ready to resume light activities within 7-10 days. During this early period, swelling and bruising begin to subside. Mr Yapa will provide detailed aftercare instructions and a personalised recovery plan, so you feel supported throughout your healing.
How long does it take for chin reduction results to show?
An initial improvement is visible once the early swelling settles over the first couple of weeks. Because swelling reduces gradually, the final, refined result continues to emerge over the following weeks as the tissues fully settle. Mr Yapa will monitor your progress and let you know what to expect at each stage. Most of the swelling has gone by around six weeks, with minor changes continuing for a few months after an osteotomy.
Are the results of chin reduction permanent?
Once the bone has been reduced or repositioned, it does not grow back, so the change to your profile is permanent. The face continues to age as it would have done, but the underlying correction holds.
Will there be a visible scar?
In most cases, the incision is entirely inside the mouth, so there is no visible scar at all. Where a small incision beneath the chin is needed for access, it is placed in the natural crease under the jaw and settles to a fine line that is difficult to see.
Will chin reduction change my bite or affect my teeth?
No. The bone is worked on below the roots of the teeth, and how your teeth meet is unaffected. If your assessment suggests that the position of your jaws rather than your chin is driving the appearance, that is a different problem and Mr Yapa will tell you at the consultation rather than proceeding with a chin reduction.
Chin Reduction CONSULTATION LONDON
Book Your Appointment
Taking the first step towards chin reduction surgery is a big decision, and we are here to support you. Your journey starts with a consultation with Mr Yapa, a consultant plastic surgeon specialising in facial surgery, at our Harley Street clinic, with virtual consultations also available. A member of BAAPS, BAPRAS, and ISAPS, and on the GMC Specialist Register in Plastic Surgery, he will understand your goals, assess your facial harmony, and advise on the right approach for you.
2026 consultation dates are now available to book online, costing £250 (redeemable against your surgery should you wish to go ahead). You can join our waiting list to be notified when new dates become available. For general enquiries or to learn more about our procedures and services, please use the form below to request a callback.
