WHAT'S BOTHERING YOU

In most cases a weak or receding chin is genetic, so some people are just born with a lack of “projection” in the chin area. Anatomically the shape of the chin is affected not only by the bone structure but by the fatty chin pad at its tip. This means that a receding chin can also develop with age, as a result of the degradation of fat and bone tissue. A weak or receding chin means there is less definition in your jaw line and can make your face look out of proportion. As such, a better-structured chin can make a dramatic difference to the facial profile.

Dermal fillers have become a popular option for creating balance in the chin without the need for surgery. The safest type of dermal fillers are made from hyaluronic acid, a non-permanent substance that is naturally found in our bodies and breaks down over time. Fillers can add shape and definition to a weak chin and contour the jawline to improve the appearance of the chin. They can add projection to a flat chin or make a small chin larger with results lasting for up to 24 months, depending on the product used.

Surgery to address a receding or weak chin is usually done by inserting an implant into the chin. Another technique is known as a “sliding genioplasty” which involves reshaping and repositioning the lower jaw bones. As with all surgical procedures costs will depend on the surgeon performing the procedure and how complex the surgery is but the average costs for corrective chin surgery is around £3,500.

Beards are definitely back in fashion and have been some time and are used by many men to disguise a weak chin. Any type of beard can hide a weak chin. The fuller the beard, the less visible the shape of the chin will be, however, even a goatee can “fill out” the area and add a bit more shape and definition.

Sometimes a weak chin is caused by the structure of the jaw which is effected by the positioning of your teeth. Jaw re-positioning can be performed, however, this is a very different procedure to having braces. Invisible braces like Invisalign are designed to re-position the teeth by a few millimetres to give balance and structure to the teeth so they are unlikely to impact your profile or appearance of your chin much.

Yes. In most cases, dermal fillers can offer a good alternative to surgery for those with a weak or receding chin. Not everyone will be suitable for treatment so you will need to consult with a medical practitioner who offers chin enhancement using fillers to see if you are a suitable candidate.  As in other areas of the face, dermal fillers can be used to add shape and definition to the chin and to enhance the natural profile by adding projection to a flat or receding chin.

Braces can certainly help as part of an overall treatment plan but in most cases treatment targeted specifically at the chin would be necessary to yield noticeable results.

Chin implants can be used to improve the shape and appearance of a weak or receding chin. They work by replicating the fat pad that would add projection, balance and definition to the area in someone with a strong chin. The implant is usually inserted through the mouth and the procedure takes around one hour.