While the chin represents only 10 percent of the face by area, it can dramatically shape a person’s overall appearance. Chin surgery, also known as genioplasty, can range from advanced procedures that reposition the chin bone to simple office-based treatments that refine asymmetry. Dr. Marco Ellis has years of experience performing chin surgery both as a standalone procedure and in conjunction with others (e.g., neck liposuction, rhinoplasty, face lift).
The most common reason patients consider chin surgery is microgenia, a chin point that is relatively short for the face and has little projection. Many men with this concern camouflage a smaller chin by growing a beard, which simulates fullness.
Surgery can also be tailored for patients who have noticeable asymmetry of the chin point or an overly prominent chin (macrogenia). Dr. Ellis’ goal is to provide a customized solution that addresses each patient’s unique concerns. He and his team will guide you through the consultation, planning, surgery, and recovery experience.
What Happens During the Preoperative Evaluation?
Your preoperative evaluation begins with a review of any prior dental or oral surgical history. Patients then undergo a 3D evaluation with simulation to preview their results and align on expectations. Recommendations are tailored to the amount of change you’re hoping to achieve.
Chin Surgery Options
Dr. Ellis offers several techniques for enhancing the chin. Options include:
- A chin implant, typically made of silicone and available in a variety of sizes and shapes. It is placed between the muscles and the chinbone to add desirable length and definition to the lower face.
- Fat transfer, which harvests surplus fat cells from another area of the patient’s own body (often the abdomen or thighs), purifies them, and reimplants them in the chin to add natural volume. Because this procedure uses the patient’s own cells, the results are safe and long-lasting.
- Sliding genioplasty, which repositions the bone to extend the chin (or set back a very prominent chin). This is generally reserved for patients who want a more significant change in length.
- Dermal filler, a hyaluronic acid-based injectable treatment that adds volume to the chin. There’s no downtime, though periodic treatments are needed to maintain results.
Chin Surgery Recovery & Results
Recovery from chin augmentation is typically easier than recovery from many other plastic surgery procedures. Some swelling and discomfort in the chin area are normal and can be managed with pain medication and ice packs. Most patients feel well enough to return to work and everyday activities within a week or two.
While the chin will look fuller immediately following surgery, it can take a few months for swelling to fully subside and reveal the refined facial contours achieved with chin augmentation. Except when dermal filler is used, results from chin augmentation are typically considered long-lasting.
Chin Augmentation Costs
The price of chin augmentation depends on several factors, the most important being the type of procedure you and Dr. Ellis decide will best achieve your desired results. During your consultation, Dr. Ellis will walk through the cost of each option so you can make an informed decision. Because chin surgery is an elective procedure, it is generally not covered by insurance. However, financing options are available to Dr. Ellis’s patients.
Chin Surgery Complementary Procedures
Chin augmentation is often performed in conjunction with rhinoplasty. Because the nose and chin are the two features that project the furthest from the face, striking the right proportion between them can enhance overall facial harmony.
Dr. Ellis also commonly performs neck and/or chin liposuction alongside chin augmentation to create a beautifully defined face shape and a stronger jawline.
Chin augmentation is one of several facial procedures a patient may choose as part of a larger gender affirmation plan.
Benefits of Chin Augmentation
Benefits of chin augmentation performed by Dr. Ellis include:
- Extending a weak or recessed chin
- Creating better harmony with other facial features like the nose
- Strengthening the definition of the jawline
- Softening the appearance of a double chin or jowls
- Filling in a cleft in the chin
Why Choose Dr. Marco Ellis for Chin Augmentation
Patients across Chicago choose Dr. Ellis for his refined aesthetic eye, meticulous technique, and commitment to natural-looking results. As a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, he brings both advanced surgical expertise and a personalized, consultative approach to every procedure — helping each patient feel informed, comfortable, and confident from first visit through final result.
Schedule Your Chin Augmentation Consultation in Chicago
Ready to explore how chin augmentation can enhance your facial balance and profile? Schedule a personalized consultation with Dr. Marco Ellis to discuss your goals and discover the option that’s right for you. Call (312) 695-6022 today to get started.