Chin Narrowing Techniques

Q: Dr. Eppley, Is it possible to narrow my chin without implants? Also I had double jaw surgery before so I don’t know if that will complicate things. I can send pictures of myself. How long do I need to take time off from work for this procedure? Also, please let me know the estimated cost of this surgery. Thanks!

A: Thank you for your inquiry. First, implants can only widen a chin and can never make it more narrow since it is an additive procedure. There are two methods for chin narrowing. The first method is an intraoral approach where a sliding genioplasty bone cut is made and then central edge of bone is removed. When put back together this creates a T-shaped pattern, hence the name T-shaped chin reduction. The other approach is done from a skin incisions below where the chin is narrowed by shaving off the sides of the bone known as submental chin reshaping. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

I would need to know which method your prefer to adequately answer the cost question. Please send me some pictures of your chin for my assessment and recommendations.

While the swelling takes 4 to 6 weeks to largely resolve, I would not think you would take more than 5 to 7 days off work.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana