As one of the key features of the face, the chin greatly affects symmetry. Having cosmetic chin surgery can mean surgical implants, shaving of the bone, inserting or removing a cleft, and much more. The effects of cosmetic chin surgery may be drastic or subtle, and will alter the appearance of other facial features, such as the nose. Using cosmetic chin surgery to reshape a weak or prominent chin can bring other elements in to harmony, adding emphasis to the nose, distracting from the jaw line, etc.

Prior to the cosmetic chin surgery, the patient and plastic surgeon will work together to determine what an appropriate new look will consist of. Cosmetic chin surgery may be performed in conjunction with other facial procedures, and it is critical to take those into account when planning a cosmetic chin surgery. Some surgeons will use computer imaging programs to give patients an idea of the projected outcome and help them to visualize the results of cosmetic chin surgery.

The length of the actual procedure will depend to an extent upon the type of cosmetic chin surgery that is being performed. Chin implants require the insertion of a sculpted piece of silicone, inserted into a pocket in the fascia and sutured in place. During cosmetic chin surgery designed to reduce the appearance of the chin, an incision is made and the bone is sculpted, the excess removed, and the incision stitched shut. Cosmetic chin surgery is typically conducted with the patient under general anesthesia, due to the location of the surgery, although some cosmetic chin surgery patients might opt for sedation instead.

After the procedure, the surgeon who performed the cosmetic chin surgery covers the site with a bandage that should remain in place for two or three days. There is some discomfort following a cosmetic chin surgery, and you will be prescribed pain medication to make you more comfortable during the initial phases of healing. Cosmetic chin surgery patients will find that their chewing is limited, and physical activities that could jar the face should be avoided.