Facial balance depends heavily on the chin, and even small differences in its projection or position can influence how the entire face is perceived. A chin that recedes, protrudes, or appears asymmetric can disrupt the proportions of the jawline and profile. Sliding genioplasty modifies the position of the chin bone itself, allowing controlled adjustments tailored to each individual’s anatomy. At Seattle Plastic Surgery, the procedure is planned with attention to symmetry, contour, and long-term structural harmony.
What Is Sliding Genioplasty?
Sliding genioplasty is a procedure in which the lower portion of the chin bone (mandibular symphysis) is surgically cut and repositioned. Unlike chin implants, which add external volume, sliding genioplasty uses the patient’s own bone to adjust:
- Projection (moving the chin forward or backward)
- Vertical height (raising or lowering the chin)
- Chin asymmetry
- Shape and contour
This approach is often chosen by individuals who prefer an implant-free option, have functional concerns related to the chin, or want a more controlled and precise adjustment to bone structure.
Because the bone is repositioned rather than augmented with a foreign material, the procedure offers a structural change based on natural anatomy.
Who May Benefit From Sliding Genioplasty?
Sliding genioplasty can be considered for individuals with:
- A recessed (retruded) chin
- A prominent chin that could benefit from reduction
- Vertical chin deficiencies (short chin)
- Vertical excess (long chin)
- Chin asymmetry
- A desire to improve jawline balance
Candidates often explore this procedure when the chin shape influences their facial proportions or when a more natural, bone-based approach is preferred over implants. A consultation at Seattle Plastic Surgery includes an examination of facial proportions, profile alignment, bite considerations, and jaw structure to help determine whether sliding genioplasty is appropriate.
How Sliding Genioplasty Works
Sliding genioplasty involves several coordinated steps, all performed inside the mouth, so no external scar is created. Our surgeon accesses the lower portion of the jawbone and makes a controlled cut (osteotomy) across the chin area. Here is a general overview of the process:
1. Evaluation and Planning
Our surgeon assesses the chin’s relation to the lips, nose, jawline, and neck. This helps determine how far the chin needs to move.
2. Internal Incision
A small incision is made inside the mouth, along the lower gum line. This avoids an external scar on the face.
3. Chin Bone Osteotomy
Our surgeon creates a horizontal cut across the lower portion of the chin bone. This allows the chin segment to move independently from the rest of the jaw.
4. Repositioning the Chin Segment
The chin bone is moved to the planned position. With sliding genioplasty, adjustments can be multidirectional:
- Forward movement for a recessed chin
- Backward movement for a prominent chin
- Upward movement to shorten chin height
- Downward movement to lengthen the chin
- Diagonal repositioning for asymmetry
5. Fixation
Once in place, the chin segment is secured with small titanium plates and screws. These remain in place permanently unless removal is medically indicated.
6. Closing the Incision
The incision inside the mouth is closed with dissolvable sutures. No external stitches are required.
7. Recovery and Monitoring
The chin area is monitored during healing to ensure stable bone union and appropriate chin contour.
Sliding Genioplasty vs. Chin Implants
Both sliding genioplasty and chin implants are used to enhance chin projection, but they work differently.
Sliding Genioplasty
- Uses the patient’s own bone
- Allows forward, backward, upward, downward, and asymmetry corrections
- Does not add external materials
- Helpful when vertical adjustments are needed
- May be considered in cases of significant retrusion or asymmetry
Chin Implants
- Add a projection using a synthetic implant
- Do not alter the bone’s natural height
- Limited in multi-dimensional adjustments
Our surgeons at Seattle Plastic Surgery can help determine which method is better suited for a patient’s anatomy and goals.
Recovery After Sliding Genioplasty
Recovery varies from patient to patient, but there are general patterns most individuals experience. It typically involves swelling, bruising, and a feeling of tightness in the lower face during the first several days. Patients are often advised to maintain a soft or liquid diet initially, keep the head elevated, and avoid strenuous activity while early healing takes place. People often return to light daily activities within one to two weeks, although residual swelling may continue to improve over several weeks. As the bone heals and the tissues settle, follow-up appointments allow us to monitor progress and ensure the chin is healing in a stable, well-aligned position.
Why Choose Seattle Plastic Surgery for Sliding Genioplasty
Seattle Plastic Surgery provides facial contouring procedures with an emphasis on balanced proportions, bone structure, and individualized planning. Patients choosing sliding genioplasty may expect:
- Detailed facial analysis to determine appropriate chin movement
- Experience with both implant-based and bone-based chin surgery
- Internal incision approach that avoids external scarring
- Advanced fixation techniques for stable repositioning
- Comprehensive pre- and post-operative follow-up
The goal is to help each patient understand their chin anatomy and explore options that align with their facial structure.
Schedule a Consultation for Sliding Genioplasty in Seattle
If you’re exploring options to refine chin projection or improve facial balance, sliding genioplasty may be worth considering. Seattle Plastic Surgery can provide a full evaluation and discuss whether this bone-based chin procedure aligns with your anatomy and expectations. Call us at 206-350-7606 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of genioplasty?
The cost varies depending on the complexity of the procedure, the type of chin movement required, and any additional treatments performed at the same time. A consultation is the best way to receive an accurate estimate based on individual needs.
Can genioplasty change chin shape?
Yes, genioplasty can modify the chin’s projection, height, or symmetry by repositioning the underlying bone. The specific changes depend on a patient’s anatomy and the surgical plan.
What is the best age for genioplasty?
There is no single “best age,” but the procedure is typically performed once the jawbone is fully developed. Suitability depends more on anatomy, goals, and overall health than on age alone.
Does sliding genioplasty affect the smile?
Temporary changes in smile movement or lower-lip sensation can occur as swelling resolves and tissues recover. These effects generally improve as healing progresses.
What is the recovery time for sliding genioplasty?
Patients often return to light activities within one to two weeks, though swelling and subtle changes may continue for several weeks. Full bone healing takes longer and is monitored during postoperative visits.
Can sliding genioplasty improve jawline?
Sliding genioplasty primarily addresses chin position, but improving chin projection or symmetry can also influence how the jawline appears. The degree of improvement varies based on individual anatomy and treatment goals.
Can you speak after genioplasty?
Speaking is generally possible after surgery, though mild stiffness or swelling may make movement feel limited at first. These effects tend to ease as healing progresses.
Does sliding genioplasty affect teeth?
Sliding genioplasty is performed on the lower portion of the chin and does not involve the tooth-bearing part of the jaw. Temporary numbness or tightness can occur, but the teeth themselves are generally not affected.
Does bone grow after genioplasty?
The repositioned chin bone heals in its new location, similar to a fracture healing process. While the bone does not grow back to its old position, normal age-related changes in facial bone structure can still occur over time.
Does sliding genioplasty improve breathing?
Sliding genioplasty is designed for chin repositioning rather than airway surgery. Any breathing changes would depend on individual anatomy and are not the primary intent of the procedure.
How painful is sliding genioplasty?
Patients often describe discomfort as manageable. Pain levels vary from person to person and typically lessen as healing progresses.
Can you be in the military with a sliding genioplasty?
Eligibility depends on specific military medical standards and the individual’s healing status.
Is a chin implant or sliding genioplasty better?
They serve different purposes. Your surgeon can help determine which aligns best with your anatomy and goals.
Contact Us
STILL HAVE QUESTIONS?
Give us a call at 206-350-7606 or chat by clicking the icon in the lower left hand corner of your screen. Additionally, you can contact us by filling out the form above.
