Table of contents

• Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): Detailed Medical Procedures for Reduction
• Best Clinics in Korea for Long Chin
• The Journey to Chin Surgery in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide
• Cost Analysis: Chin Surgery in South Korea vs. Global Destinations
• Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Restoring Facial Harmony and Confidence
• Conclusion
• References

A "long chin," medically known as a chin that is vertically elongated beyond ideal facial proportions, can have a significant impact on both facial aesthetics and self-confidence. This guide explores the medical definitions, surgical procedures, the process of undergoing chin surgery in South Korea as a medical tourist, associated costs, and patient outcomes.

Getting familiar with the right medical terminology is the first step toward finding effective solutions for a vertically elongated chin.

Defining Vertical Macrogenia and Its Impact on Facial Harmony

The medical term for a chin that is too long vertically is vertical macrogenia. This condition refers to an overgrowth of the chin bone, which disrupts the balance and symmetry of the face. Ideally, the face is divided into upper, middle, and lower thirds, and when the chin is too long, it makes the lower third appear "bottom-heavy" or, in women, more masculine.

Vertical macrogenia can also affect how the lower face functions. It may change the way you smile, make it harder to close your lips naturally, and cause the mentalis muscle (which controls chin movement) to become overactive. Many people with this condition feel dissatisfied with their profile, experience lower confidence, and may avoid social situations or photos. Addressing vertical macrogenia is often seen as a reconstructive procedure, aiming to restore both facial balance and psychological well-being.

The most common cause is symphyseal overgrowth, where the front part of the lower jawbone grows more than usual. Diagnosis involves a clinical evaluation of soft tissue, incisor display, and mentalis muscle function, along with advanced imaging like lateral cephalometric X-rays and Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scans for precise measurements.

Common Medical and Informal Pseudonyms

When researching "long chin" solutions, you might come across several terms. The general medical term for a large chin is macrogenia, and when the vertical dimension is specifically in excess, it’s called vertical macrogenia.

It’s important to distinguish vertical macrogenia from prognathism, which refers to the forward protrusion of the jaw. Mandibular prognathism (sometimes called "Habsburg jaw" or "Habsburg chin") involves the lower jaw extending forward and can cause bite issues, while vertical macrogenia is about vertical length and usually doesn’t affect jaw function. Maxillary prognathism affects the upper jaw, and bimaxillary prognathism involves both jaws.

Informal terms like "extended chin," "prominent chin," or "large chin" are common, but lack medical precision. Terms like "strong chin" or "jutting chin" are more about appearance than diagnosis.

Understanding these distinctions helps patients communicate clearly with medical professionals and make informed decisions about treatment options.

Chin Surgery (Genioplasty): Detailed Medical Procedures for Reduction

Chin surgery, or genioplasty, includes several techniques to reshape the chin. For a "long chin," the focus is on reduction, using bone-based procedures for lasting results.

Overview of Chin Reduction Surgery (Osseous Genioplasty)

Chin reduction surgery is a specialized genioplasty that decreases the size and prominence of a vertically elongated chin. The most common approach is osseous genioplasty (also called sliding or bony genioplasty), which involves cutting and repositioning the patient’s own chin bone rather than using implants.

Osseous genioplasty uses natural bone, resulting in a more integrated and permanent outcome. There’s no need for future replacements, and the risk of infection or rejection is lower compared to implants. The incision is made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars.

Key Surgical Techniques for Vertical Chin Reduction

Several techniques are used, depending on the patient’s anatomy and goals:

• Horizontal Reduction Genioplasty: A horizontal bone cut is made, and a wedge of bone is removed to reduce vertical height. If needed, the chin can also be moved backward. There’s about a 10% chance of temporary numbness in the lower lip or chin.
• Semicircular Ostectomy: A semicircular section of bone is removed along the lower jaw border, creating smoother contours and a natural transition between chin and neck. This method offers high satisfaction and quick recovery.
• Coronal-Splitting Genioplasty: This advanced technique allows correction in three dimensions and preserves muscle attachments, reducing the risk of chin sagging. It’s ideal for complex or asymmetrical cases.
• Bone Burring: For minor vertical excess (2–4 mm), a high-speed burr is used to refine chin height. This is less invasive but only suitable for mild cases.

Modern techniques allow for more precise and predictable results, with fewer long-term complications than older methods. Choosing a skilled surgeon who uses advanced planning tools is essential for the best outcome.

Distinction from Chin Augmentation and Implants

Chin reduction is different from chin augmentation. Augmentation increases chin size using implants or by moving the bone forward, while reduction removes or reshapes bone to decrease size. Osseous genioplasty is preferred for reduction due to its natural feel and permanence.

Pre-Surgical Planning: Advanced Imaging and Clinical Workup

Successful chin reduction starts with thorough planning. This includes evaluating soft tissue, incisor display, and mentalis muscle function. Lateral cephalometric X-rays and CBCT scans provide detailed measurements and help avoid nerve damage.

Digital imaging and simulation software allow patients to preview their results, improving confidence and aligning expectations. Planning also considers bone thickness, lip posture, smile function, and nerve location.

Potential Risks and Complications Associated with Chin Reduction Surgery

While generally safe, chin reduction surgery carries some risks:

• Temporary Lip Numbness or Tingling: Common after surgery, usually resolves in a few months but can be permanent in rare cases.
• Swelling and Bruising: Peaks in 2-3 days, mostly gone in two weeks, with minor swelling lasting longer.
• Infection: Rare, but antibiotics are prescribed to prevent it.
• Mild Asymmetry or Under-correction: Minor variations can occur.
• Muscle Tightness or Discomfort: Usually temporary and manageable.
• Rare Complications: Such as significant bleeding or hematoma.

Incisions are made inside the mouth, so there are no visible scars. Digital planning and navigation further reduce complication rates.

Best Clinics in Korea for Long Chin

Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for long chin:

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Located in Garosu-gil, Gangnam; distinguished board-certified surgeons; renowned for facial contouring and rhinoplasty; four floors for complete care; international recognition for innovation and education; meticulous patient communication; over a decade of clinical expertise; unmatched safety protocols; multidisciplinary team; personalized solutions	Pioneering 3D implant techniques for the chin; academic-driven approach; precise long chin correction; bespoke balancing of facial proportions; advanced jaw and chin surgeries by award-winning surgeons; contributions to global research and education
Made Young Plastic Surgery	Team of doctors with 15+ years' average experience; strict 1:1 consultation; emphasized patient safety (full-time anesthesiologists, cross-check emergency system, 24/7 CCTV); comprehensive aftercare; prestigious medical awards (2022 Korea No.1 Award); wide range of contouring & anti-aging procedures	Advanced facial contouring and chin surgery; custom diagnosis for long chin correction; all procedures by highly experienced experts; innovative and individualized care protocols
DM Plastic Surgery	Led by board-certified plastic surgeons with 10–20+ years' experience; surgeons are Yonsei University alumni and ex-heads at Gangnam Severance Hospital; 1:1 tailored consultations; focus on both function and aesthetics; recognized by professional medical associations; highly regarded for revision/corrective surgeries	Individualized scientific facial analysis; advanced facial contouring (chin reduction, reshaping); expertise in correction of complex long chin; multiple specialized procedures (breast, eyes, nose, facelifts, body contouring); exceptional revision surgery capabilities

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

THE PLUS Plastic Surgery, located in the vibrant Garosu-gil district of Gangnam, Seoul, is a leading destination for those seeking world-class cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. Home to a distinguished team of board-certified surgeons—Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, and Dr. Lee Eun Young—the clinic is internationally recognized for its specialization in facial contouring and rhinoplasty, and is revered for consistently advancing the field through both clinical innovation and medical education. Spanning four floors dedicated to comprehensive care from consultation to recovery, THE PLUS offers a sophisticated blend of cutting-edge techniques, academic excellence, and personalized patient service. Their commitment to achieving a harmonious balance of facial features, with the aim of enhancing each client's natural beauty, has made THE PLUS a premier choice, especially for those considering correction of a long chin.

Why THE PLUS Plastic Surgery is the Best Clinic for Long Chin:

• The clinic's surgeons are internationally recognized experts in facial contouring, with a focus on balancing the chin in harmony with the overall facial structure for natural, attractive results.
• Dr. Kim, board certified and an award-winning authority on 3D implants, brings pioneering research and extensive experience in jaw and chin surgeries, enabling bespoke solutions for long chin correction.
• Dr. Jeong, as President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, upholds the highest standards of surgical safety, innovation, and aesthetic artistry, applying his philosophy of merging function and beauty to every procedure.
• The team actively contributes to global plastic surgery research, leading educational seminars and publishing influential work—ensuring their patients benefit from the very latest advancements in the field.
• Unmatched safety protocols, a multidisciplinary support team, and state-of-the-art facilities guarantee comprehensive care from preoperative planning through postoperative recovery.
• THE PLUS stands out for its meticulous patient communication, ensuring each client’s facial proportions, profile, and cultural aesthetic are carefully considered in achieving a personalized and flawless outcome.
• With over a decade of clinical expertise, each procedure is crafted with precision, aiming for enduring results and natural enhancement, minimizing the risk of overcorrection or artificial appearance.

Patients seeking correction of a long chin can trust THE PLUS Plastic Surgery for its elite team, innovative methods, and unwavering dedication to delivering balanced, beautiful, and highly satisfying results.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier clinic for long chin correction in Korea by combining unrivaled surgical expertise, uncompromising safety standards, and comprehensive patient care. The clinic’s medical team comprises only highly skilled doctors, each averaging over 15 years of clinical experience, ensuring precise consultation, personalized diagnosis, and optimal surgical results. Patient safety is at the heart of every procedure at Made Young, with full-time board-certified anesthesiologists providing dedicated 1:1 monitoring, a robust cross-check emergency system, and round-the-clock transparency via full CCTV coverage. Beyond surgery, Made Young supports patients with a dedicated aftercare center and a thorough post-procedure regimen, enhancing recovery and sustainment of results. The clinic’s excellence is further validated by prestigious accolades, including the 2022 Korea No.1 Award and recognition from leading medical societies, reinforcing its commitment to exceptional standards. With a wide array of cutting-edge facial contouring and anti-aging procedures, including advanced solutions for long chin correction, Made Young Plastic Surgery offers every patient an unparalleled experience—where aesthetic enhancement, safety, and patient satisfaction are the highest priority.

You can check out their website here: Made Young Plastic Surgery Website

DM Plastic Surgery

DM Plastic Surgery is a top-tier clinic in Korea renowned for its dedication to safe, personalized, and cutting-edge plastic surgery solutions. The clinic is led by two board-certified plastic surgeons—both with distinguished backgrounds as alumni of Yonsei University Hospital and past heads of the Department of Plastic Surgery at Gangnam Severance Hospital. Their medical team consists solely of experienced specialists with over 10 to 20 years of expertise in their respective fields. This team provides 1:1 individually tailored consultations, precise scientific analysis, and outstanding surgical techniques, all underpinned by a commitment to aesthetic excellence and best-practice care. Their membership in the Association of Plastic Surgery Medical Doctors underscores their ongoing efforts to set new standards of quality in the industry. DM Plastic Surgery is particularly celebrated for its expertise in corrective procedures such as long chin reduction, ensuring each patient's needs are addressed with the utmost precision and artistry.

Why DM Plastic Surgery is the Best Clinic for Long Chin Treatment:

• Only board-certified plastic surgeons with 10–20+ years of dedicated experience perform surgeries.
• Surgeons are highly respected alumni of Yonsei University Hospital and have held leadership roles at Gangnam Severance Hospital.
• Individualized treatment plans through intensive 1:1 consultations and thorough scientific facial analysis.
• Renowned for advanced facial contouring procedures, including chin reduction and reshaping solutions tailored to each patient’s unique facial structure.
• Exceptional focus on both functional and aesthetic outcomes, guaranteeing improvements in facial proportion and harmony.
• Strong track record in revision and correction surgeries, supporting even the most complex long chin cases.
• Commitment to ongoing innovation, patient safety, and industry excellence as recognized members of professional medical associations.

DM Plastic Surgery’s Comprehensive Medical Services:

• DM Breast Surgery:

  • Bellagel Breast Augmentation
  • Revisional Breast Surgery
  • Breast Reduction and Lift
  • Regina Volume Breast Augmentation
  • Breast Augmentation with Fat Injection

• Yoo Han Su's Facial Contouring:

  • Zygoma Reduction
  • Vivid-line Surgery for Square Jaw
  • Recessed Chin Correction
  • Bimaxillary Protrusion Surgery
  • Chin Reduction (including long chin correction)
  • 3D Forehead Augmentation
  • Paranasal Augmentation

• Lee Joo Hong's Eye Surgery:

  • Double-fold Eyelid Surgery
  • Lifetime Guaranteed Canthoplasty
  • Prominent Eyes Canthoplasty
  • Eye Shape Revision, Under Eye Fat Transfer, Upper and Lower Eyelid Surgery
  • Revision Eyelid Surgery
  • Double Eyelid Surgery for Men

• Lee Joo Hong's Nose Surgery:

  • Augmentation Rhinoplasty
  • Corrections for Aquiline, Bulbous, Short, and Long Nose
  • Nasal Tip Surgery
  • Revisional Nose Surgery

• Yoo Won Min's Facelifting:

  • Face, Forehead, Temple, Triple, V-Loc, Jowl Lifts, Mini Lift
  • Ulthera Face Lift (non-surgical)
  • Fat Grafting Procedure

• DM Body Surgery's Specificity:

  • Cosmetic Ear Surgery
  • Calf Reduction
  • Hip Augmentation
  • Special customized procedures (With The M's Special)

Find more about this clinic here: DM Plastic Surgery Website

The Journey to Chin Surgery in South Korea: A Medical Tourist's Guide

South Korea is a global leader in cosmetic procedures, including chin surgery, attracting many medical tourists with its advanced technology, skilled surgeons, and comprehensive care.

The Process, Step-by-Step:

• Initial Consultation and Digital Simulation: The process starts with a detailed consultation and advanced imaging to simulate outcomes, helping patients visualize their new profile.
• Comprehensive Pre-Operative Medical Evaluations: After agreeing on a plan, patients undergo medical evaluations, including blood tests and 3D CT scans. Some clinics offer pre-surgery skincare treatments.
• The Surgical Procedure: Surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia, with incisions inside the mouth. The chin bone is reshaped and fixed in place with metal plates and screws. The procedure takes about an hour.
• Post-Operative Care and Recovery Protocols: Korean clinics emphasize post-op care, providing instructions, medications, and support. Patients are advised to rest, eat soft foods, and wear a compression strap. Swelling and bruising peak in a few days and subside within two weeks. Most people return to work in 7-10 days.

Advanced Facilities, Technology, and Patient Support in Korean Clinics

Korean clinics use state-of-the-art technology, including high-definition cameras and 3D imaging, for greater precision and faster recovery. Many offer luxury amenities and personalized care, ensuring a comfortable experience from consultation to recovery.

Cultural Sensitivity and Language Support for International Patients

Korean clinics often have multilingual staff or translators to help international patients feel comfortable and understood. This cultural sensitivity and support make the experience smoother and more reassuring, turning potential barriers into strengths.

South Korea’s medical tourism ecosystem offers more than just surgery—it provides a structured, supportive environment with advanced diagnostics, personalized planning, and extensive post-op care, making it a top choice for medical tourists seeking quality and value.

Cost Analysis: Chin Surgery in South Korea vs. Global Destinations

Understanding the costs involved is crucial for anyone considering chin surgery abroad. South Korea offers a balance of affordability and high-quality care.

Average Costs of Chin Surgery in South Korea

Chin surgery in South Korea, including genioplasty, typically costs ₩7,200,000 to ₩7,900,000 KRW (about $4,960 to $5,440 USD as of May 2025). This usually covers consultations, post-op check-ups, medications, anesthesia, and the surgeon’s fee.

International patients should also budget for:

• Travel and Accommodation: Flights ($500–$1,500) and two weeks’ lodging ($420–$2,800).
• Daily Expenses: Meals and transport ($140–$700 for two weeks).
• Upfront Deposit: Often 10% of the procedure cost.
• VAT Refund: Foreigners may get a VAT refund, reducing costs.
• Optional Procedures: Combining chin surgery with other treatments adds to the total.

Factors like procedure complexity, surgeon reputation, clinic location, and technology can affect the final price.

Table 1: Estimated Cost of Chin Surgery in South Korea (USD)

Procedure Component	Cost Range (USD)
Chin Surgery (Procedure)	$4,960 - $5,440
Flights (Economy Round-trip)	$500 - $1,500
Accommodation (2 weeks)	$420 - $2,800
Daily Expenses (2 weeks)	$140 - $700
Total Estimated Trip Cost (including surgery)	$6,020 - $10,440

This breakdown helps patients budget realistically for their medical journey.

Comparative Costs for Medical Tourists: South Korea vs. Other Countries

Many people look abroad for chin surgery due to high costs at home. Countries like India, Thailand, and Turkey offer budget-friendly options with good satisfaction rates.

Table 2: Comparative Costs for Genioplasty (Chin Reduction) Across Key Medical Tourism Destinations (USD)

Country	Chin Reduction (Genioplasty) Cost Range (USD)	Notes
South Korea	$4,960 - $5,440	Competitive pricing, advanced care, and technology
United States	$10,000	High standards, higher costs
United Kingdom	$6,000 - $7,500	High standards, higher operating expenses
Australia	$3,440 - $10,320	Robust healthcare, high standards
Mexico	$900 - $3,600	Affordable, but check regulatory standards
Turkey	$2,000 - $4,770	Cost-effective, high-quality facilities
Thailand	$7,200	Bundled options, check provider qualifications
India	$480 - $3,000	Very inexpensive, varies by city and surgeon

This table offers a quick comparison for patients considering global options.

The Value Proposition of South Korea for Medical Tourism

Choosing a destination isn’t just about the lowest price. Patients should weigh the total cost—including surgery, travel, and living expenses—against the quality of care, surgeon expertise, technology, and overall experience.

While countries like India and Turkey may offer lower base prices, South Korea stands out for its advanced infrastructure, meticulous planning, and comprehensive care. Its prices are more affordable than Western countries, and the overall experience is designed for safety, comfort, and excellent results.

Patient Experiences and Outcomes: Restoring Facial Harmony and Confidence

Chin surgery for a "long chin" offers more than just physical change—it can transform self-perception and quality of life.

Addressing Aesthetic and Functional Concerns through Chin Reduction

Long chin surgery reduces vertical excess, restores facial proportion, and enhances harmony. It’s especially popular among women seeking a more feminine look. The procedure can also improve lip closure and reduce mentalis muscle strain.

Reported Patient Satisfaction and Psychological Benefits

Studies show that 78% of patients report significant improvements in appearance and self-image after surgery. Many experience a boost in self-confidence and reduced social anxiety. Patient testimonials often highlight the emotional impact, with comments like, "There is no better feeling than self confidence and mine definitely has improved," and, "I really could not be happier! I feel so grateful... I have never felt so beautiful." The journey may involve initial swelling, but patience is rewarded with lasting results.

Chin reduction surgery is more than cosmetic—it addresses deep-seated issues of self-perception and well-being, functioning as a reconstructive intervention for both physical and psychological health.

Recovery Expectations and Long-Term Results

Recovery involves swelling and bruising, peaking in the first few days and mostly resolving within two weeks. Some swelling may last for 2-3 months as the bone heals. Temporary numbness is common and usually fades over several months.

Following post-op instructions—like eating soft foods and maintaining oral hygiene—ensures the best healing. The results of osseous genioplasty are permanent, and the chin will age naturally with the rest of the face.

Conclusion

Vertical macrogenia, or a "long chin," disrupts facial harmony and can cause significant psychosocial distress. Modern chin surgery, especially osseous genioplasty, provides effective, permanent solutions with advanced planning and tailored techniques. South Korea stands out as a top destination for medical tourists, offering competitive pricing, comprehensive care, and high patient satisfaction. Patients report lasting improvements in confidence and quality of life, making informed decision-making essential for the best outcomes.

References

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