Chin Augmentation — Choosing an Implant and Surgical Methods
A receding chin can create a weak or unbalanced impression, and can also make the mouth appear relatively more protruding. In such cases, chin tip augmentation — commonly called chin augmentation or "mu-teok" surgery — may be considered. Chin augmentation can help offset the appearance of a protruding mouth (an indirect correction for protruding lips), create a slimmer-looking jawline, and give a brighter overall impression. Of course, results vary by individual.
This article summarizes the implant selection criteria, surgical methods, and recovery process as explained by Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery in Apgujeong. You can review the surgeon's background on the About the Doctor page.
Why does chin augmentation use Gore-Tex or Surgiform implants?
In the past, silicone was widely used, but silicone does not attach to the patient's own bone and can shift position, which may cause a sense of foreign-body discomfort. It is also known that using silicone to build up significant height can press on the bone and cause tooth sensitivity. Synthetic bone implants require a larger surgical area, which can mean a longer recovery, and their firmness can reduce comfort of wear.
Taking these factors into account, Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery uses Gore-Tex or Surgiform implants. Both materials are made from the same base substance. Because the shape of the chin bone differs from person to person, a large block of Gore-Tex or Surgiform is carved by hand during surgery and custom-fitted to each patient's chin bone shape, with the goal of improving comfort of wear.
When is osteotomy using the patient's own bone considered?
Osteotomy, which repositions the patient's own bone, has the advantage of being able to adjust the chin to look longer or shorter, and can also correct left-right asymmetry at the same time as the surgery. However, it requires general anesthesia, the bone must be fixed with a thin wire that may be felt by touch, and the boundary where the bone was moved may be felt as a slight step. These are explained as drawbacks. Recovery takes about one week, and sensation in the lower lip may temporarily decrease, gradually returning over time. Recovery speed varies by individual.
How is anesthesia administered, and are there visible scars?
Osteotomy using the patient's own bone is performed under general anesthesia, while implant insertion procedures such as Gore-Tex are relatively simple procedures performed under local anesthesia. Because the surgery is performed entirely through an incision inside the mouth, visible external scarring can be expected to be minimized.
What is the recovery process like after surgery?
For about 2–3 weeks after surgery, sensation in the lower lip may decrease. This is a temporary effect caused by the nerve being stretched during surgery, and it gradually recovers over time. Swelling and bruising are generally minimal, though bruising can occasionally occur, and the rate of resolution can be faster or slower depending on the individual.
How should I care for the area after surgery?
Dissolvable sutures are used, so they do not necessarily need to be removed, but if you experience discomfort, they can be removed around 10 days after surgery. It is recommended to keep the inside of the mouth clean and rinse frequently. A sponge and paper tape are applied to the chin for about 3 days to help swelling subside more quickly.
Can this be combined with square jaw reduction surgery?
A T-shaped osteotomy that brings the chin bone toward the center can help project the chin tip forward, making it useful when combining square jaw reduction surgery with chin augmentation. The overall surgical plan, taking the balance of the entire face into account, is determined through consultation.
Consultation Information
Kim Jongseo Plastic Surgery (Apgujeong, Seoul) · 2F Apgujeong Building, 842 Nonhyeon-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul · 02-3416-0070 (after hours 070-4027-0070) · Book a Consultation
This article is provided for informational purposes only, and the effects and recovery period of any surgery or procedure may vary by individual. All medical procedures carry a possibility of side effects, so please consult thoroughly with a specialist.
Procedure Detail Materials
Below are procedure guide materials from the previous website (surgery.co.kr). Before-and-after results may vary by individual, and all medical procedures carry a possibility of side effects.
