Table of contents

• Understanding the Condition: "Receding Chin" and Its Medical Context
• Medical Procedures for Chin Augmentation: A Detailed Analysis
• Navigating Medical Tourism: The South Korean Experience
• Best Clinics in Korea for Receding Chin
• Cost Analysis: A Medical Tourist's Financial Perspective
• Patient Narratives: Outcomes, Confidence, and Reality
• Conclusion
• References

Considering treatment in Korea? Everything you need to know e.g. — how to avoid scams, visas, interpreters, recovery tips — in our Medical Tourism Master Guide. Plan with confidence in minutes, not weeks!

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Purpose and Scope

This guide offers a detailed and evidence-based overview for anyone considering chin augmentation, especially those who have a receding chin or a "posteriorly positioned chin profile." Instead of focusing solely on aesthetics, the article delves into clinical definitions, health implications, available procedures, medical tourism logistics, and the psychological aspects of chin augmentation. Information is drawn from medical journals, clinical reports, and patient stories to provide a balanced and accessible resource for making treatment decisions.

The Expert’s Perspective

All content is thoroughly researched from a wide range of professional references, with complicated terms clarified to create a more approachable read. Patient safety and well-being are central themes, so the guide emphasizes starting with a medical diagnosis rather than a cosmetic fix. The intention is to equip readers with the right knowledge so they feel empowered to consult providers and navigate both surgical and non-surgical options confidently.

Understanding the Condition: "Receding Chin" and Its Medical Context

Defining the "Posteriorly Positioned Chin Profile"

A receding chin describes when the lower jawbone (mandible) sits further back compared to the upper jaw (maxilla), giving the chin a sloped appearance. Clinically, this is called a "posteriorly positioned chin profile," varying in severity from slightly convex to vertically or diagonally angled chins. Such deficiencies can be due to skeletal misalignment or bone resorption from aging, and may be accompanied by a rounded angle or sagging skin known as chin ptosis.

Key Medical Terms and Pseudonyms

The terms used to describe this condition can differ:

• Retrognathia / Mandibular Retrognathia: The primary medical label for a receding chin, indicating the lower jaw is significantly set back.
• Retrognathism: A synonym for retrognathia.
• Micrognathia: Refers to a particularly small chin, which may include or exclude retrognathia, and can appear in syndromes like Pierre Robin sequence.
• Common Pseudonyms: Everyday language like "weak chin," "small chin," or "deficient chin" often point to the same issue.

Table 1: Receding Chin - Common Medical Terms and Pseudonyms

Term	Medical Classification	Description
Retrognathia / Mandibular Retrognathia	Primary Medical Term	The lower jaw is set back from the upper jaw, causing a receding chin profile.
Retrognathism	Synonym	A synonym for retrognathia.
Micrognathia	Distinct Condition	An abnormally small chin, which may or may not be positioned posteriorly.
"Weak" or "Small" Chin	Colloquial Pseudonym	A layperson's term for a chin that lacks ideal projection.

Causes and Associated Health Issues

A receding chin can be present from birth (congenital) due to genetics or broader syndromes like Pierre Robin sequence, or it can develop later (acquired) due to trauma, surgical intervention, childhood habits like thumb sucking, or aging. Though often considered cosmetic, a receding chin can have significant medical consequences. For example, retrognathia is linked to Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) because a backward-set jaw can restrict the airway, leading to sleep disruptions and increased risk for conditions such as hypertension, stroke, and heart failure.

Another medical link is with Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) disorders, as jaw misalignment can result in muscle spasms, joint pain, and jaw clicking, sometimes accompanied by chewing or swallowing difficulties. The severity often matches the scale of jaw misalignment, making a professional evaluation by an ENT specialist or maxillofacial surgeon an important first step before seeking cosmetic solutions.

Medical Procedures for Chin Augmentation: A Detailed Analysis

Non-Surgical Options: The Reversible Path

For those not ready for permanent changes, non-surgical options are available. Dermal fillers using hyaluronic acid can add volume and definition to the chin and jawline, offering immediate but temporary enhancement (lasting 6–12 months). Other treatments may include Kybella or CoolSculpting to reduce chin fat, Botox to relax jaw muscles, and noninvasive procedures like Ultherapy for skin tightening and collagen stimulation. These solutions work well as a "trial run" but require ongoing maintenance.

Surgical Solutions: The Permanent Alteration

When long-lasting change is desired, surgery is the most definitive approach. The two primary procedures are chin implants and sliding genioplasty.

• Chin Implants (Mentoplasty): This involves placing a synthetic (usually silicone) or biological implant over the chin bone to increase its prominence. The process is typically quick and performed under anesthesia, with incisions made inside the mouth or under the chin. Chin implants provide immediate, noticeable results and can be paired with other facial surgeries.

• Sliding Genioplasty (Osseous Genioplasty): For greater structural changes, this procedure alters the patient's own bone. Through an incision inside the mouth, the surgeon carefully cuts the chin bone (osteotomy), repositions it as needed, and secures it with titanium plates and screws. Sliding genioplasty allows for highly customizable outcomes in projection and shape, with bone repositioning performed to avoid root and nerve injury.

A Detailed Comparison of Surgical Procedures

Choosing between chin implants and sliding genioplasty depends on individual goals, anatomy, and comfort with invasive procedures.

Chin implants offer a less complex, more affordable path with quicker recovery (1–2 weeks), but the implant is foreign to the body and could potentially shift, become infected, or cause bone erosion over time. Removal or replacement may be necessary.

Sliding genioplasty is more invasive, requiring 2–4 weeks of recovery due to bone healing, but yields permanent, natural results using the body's own bone. It's more customizable in terms of chin shape and less prone to shifting, although there's a risk of numbness from nerve proximity.

Table 2: Chin Augmentation Procedures - A Comparative Analysis

Feature	Chin Implants	Sliding Genioplasty
Surgical Technique	Placing a synthetic implant over existing bone.	Cutting and repositioning the patient’s own chin bone.
Customization	Limited to available implant shapes and sizes.	Highly customizable; allows for lengthening, shortening, or reshaping.
Permanence	Permanent intent but may need replacement.	Permanent solution; no expected future adjustments.
Recovery Time	1–2 weeks	2–4 weeks (bone healing)
Common Risks	Implant shifting, infection, bone erosion.	Nerve damage, bone healing complications, numbness.
Cost	$3,000–$7,000	$6,000–$15,000

Navigating Medical Tourism: The South Korean Experience

Best Clinics in Korea for Receding Chin

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

Clinic Name	Key Features	Special Techniques
THEPLUS Plastic Surgery	Blend of elite surgical skill, academic leadership, and a philosophy of facial harmony. Led by director surgeons Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong; award-winning research and 3D implant expertise with deep experience in facial contouring to deliver natural, long-lasting chin augmentation; four-floor system—from precise consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare—backed by active scholarship, participation in societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and rigorous safety protocols; premier destination for receding chin correction in Korea.	3D implant expertise; chin augmentation with V-line refinement; balancing the nose, chin, and jaw for a harmonious profile; rhinoplasty and facial contouring authority.
Made Young Plastic Surgery Website	Premium center dedicated to facial and anti-aging procedures; safety ethos; receding chin focus with veteran surgical skill in chin and jawline contouring; meticulous anesthesia oversight, transparent practices, and structured aftercare—delivering natural, balanced profiles with confidence and consistency.	Verified expertise for receding chin: only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, providing direct surgeon consultations and diagnoses before any procedure; comprehensive track record across chin surgery (genioplasty), V-line surgery, jaw reduction, double chin lift, and neck lift; metal-free contouring options (metal free V-line techniques); non-surgical solutions for subtle enhancement: hyaluronic acid fillers, thread lift (including men’s thread lift), Shurink, and Ultherapy; safety-first anesthesia system: full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists on site with a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system; team-based emergency readiness; transparent care standards: full CCTV coverage of procedures; tailored treatment planning: surgical and non-invasive options combined when appropriate; dedicated recovery support: separate aftercare center; national recognition for excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place; professional accreditation: Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society; location advantage: centrally situated in Gangnam.
Opera Plastic Surgery Clinic Website	Best choice in Korea for receding chin concerns, combining a comprehensive range of lower-face solutions with a rigorous, patient-first safety system. Customizable Chin Augmentation/Chin Reduction harmonizes the profile and can be paired with V-line Square Jaw contouring, Long Chin Reduction when elongation coexists, 3D Zygomatic Reconstruction for midface balance, and targeted Facial Liposuction of the cheeks, jawline, or neck; Filler and Fat Grafting restore chin projection and lower-face volume; OV Lifting, EV Lifting, and Mini Lifting help tighten and support the jawline; Male Facial Contouring pathways ensure natural, masculine outcomes when indicated. Every treatment plan is supported by Opera’s Safe Surgery System—clear preoperative precautions, detailed post-operation instructions, postoperative precautions, and a structured aftercare program.	Chin Augmentation/Chin Reduction; V-line Square Jaw contouring; Long Chin Reduction; 3D Zygomatic Reconstruction; Facial Liposuction of cheeks, jawline, or neck; Filler and Fat Grafting; OV Lifting, EV Lifting, Mini Lifting.

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

For patients seeking correction of a receding chin, THE PLUS Plastic Surgery in Garosu-gil, Gangnam stands out for its blend of elite surgical skill, academic leadership, and a philosophy of facial harmony. Led by director surgeons Dr. Kim Taek Kyun and Dr. Jeong Jae Yong, the clinic pairs award-winning research and 3D implant expertise with deep experience in facial contouring to deliver natural, long-lasting chin augmentation. Dr. Kim—board certified, active in global plastic surgery societies, and an annual educator—has earned recognition for research on 3D implants and is a leading authority in rhinoplasty and facial contouring, ensuring chin implants and V-line refinement are planned to balance the nose, chin, and jaw for a harmonious profile. Dr. Jeong, President of the Korean Society of Plastic Surgeons, advances the clinic’s function-and-beauty ethos through international lectures and panels, bringing meticulous judgment to profile enhancement. Supported by board-certified colleagues like Dr. Lee and a team with over a decade of experience, THE PLUS delivers a seamless four-floor system—from precise consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare—backed by active scholarship, participation in societies such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, and rigorous safety protocols, making it a premier destination for receding chin correction in Korea.

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

Made Young Plastic Surgery

Made Young Plastic Surgery Clinic in Seoul’s Gangnam district is a premium center dedicated to facial and anti-aging procedures, combining genuine expertise with an uncompromising safety ethos. For patients concerned with a receding chin, Made Young stands out by uniting veteran surgical skill in chin and jawline contouring with meticulous anesthesia oversight, transparent practices, and structured aftercare—delivering natural, balanced profiles with confidence and consistency.

• Verified expertise for receding chin: only highly skilled doctors with an average of over 15 years of experience, providing direct surgeon consultations and diagnoses before any procedure
• Proven clinical experience: comprehensive track record across chin surgery (genioplasty), V-line surgery, jaw reduction, double chin lift, and neck lift for precise profile balancing
• Metal-free contouring options: metal free V-line techniques to refine the lower face while maintaining natural movement and feel
• Non-surgical solutions for subtle enhancement: hyaluronic acid fillers, thread lift (including men’s thread lift), Shurink, and Ultherapy to improve chin projection and jawline definition without downtime
• Safety-first anesthesia system: full-time, board-certified anesthesiologists on site with a 1:1 dedicated monitoring system for continuous, individualized oversight
• Team-based emergency readiness: cross-check system where multiple anesthesiologists collaborate for rapid, exact responses if needed
• Transparent care standards: full CCTV coverage of procedures to reinforce accountability and patient trust
• Tailored treatment planning: surgical and non-invasive options combined when appropriate to correct retrusion, harmonize facial thirds, and enhance the cervicomental angle
• Dedicated recovery support: a separate aftercare center delivering complete, systematic post-procedure management for smoother healing and results optimization
• National recognition for excellence: 2022 Korea No.1 Award and 2022 Korea Customer Satisfaction 1st Place
• Professional accreditation: selected as an Outstanding Member of the Korean Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and certified by the Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Surgery Society
• Location advantage: centrally situated in Gangnam, a hub for advanced aesthetic care and continuous innovation in facial surgery

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

Opera Plastic Surgery Clinic

Opera Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the best choice in Korea for receding chin concerns because it combines a comprehensive range of lower-face solutions with a rigorous, patient-first safety system. Its customizable Chin Augmentation/Chin Reduction harmonizes the profile and can be strategically paired with V-line Square Jaw contouring, Long Chin Reduction when elongation coexists, 3D Zygomatic Reconstruction for midface balance, and targeted Facial Liposuction of the cheeks, jawline, or neck to sharpen definition. For patients seeking minimally invasive options or subtle refinement, Filler and Fat Grafting restore chin projection and lower-face volume, while OV Lifting, EV Lifting, and Mini Lifting help tighten and support the jawline. Male Facial Contouring pathways ensure natural, masculine outcomes when indicated. Every treatment plan is supported by Opera’s Safe Surgery System—clear preoperative precautions, detailed post-operation instructions, postoperative precautions, and a structured aftercare program—prioritizing safety, comfort, and predictable healing. With tailored planning, full-spectrum techniques, and an unwavering commitment to patient safety and satisfaction, Opera consistently delivers balanced, natural-looking results for receding chin.

Find more about this clinic here: Opera Plastic Surgery Clinic Website

The Allure of South Korea

South Korea stands out globally for cosmetic surgery, attracting many international patients by blending technological innovation, skilled surgeons, and personalized post-op care. Facilities often feature advanced imaging (like 3D CT and AI planning) and offer logistical support such as airport pick-up, hotel arrangements, and interpretation services, making the patient journey as seamless as possible.

The Patient’s Journey: A Step-by-Step Process for International Clients

• Research & Consultation: Patients begin by researching accredited clinics—looking beyond reviews to industry recognition and patient testimonials. Many centers offer online video consultations to discuss needs and expectations in advance.
• Planning & Logistics: A finalized surgical plan allows for travel preparations, with many clinics or agencies offering comprehensive packages that cover lodging, airport transportation, and translation services.
• On-Site Preparation: Upon arrival, patients undergo thorough evaluation and imaging. International coordinators and interpreters help smooth out any language gaps.
• Surgery & Post-Op Care: Surgeries take place with detailed preparation and immediate recovery room monitoring. Innovative pain management and attentive care are standard.
• Recovery: Daily checkups, dressing changes, and swelling reduction treatments are routine. Patients typically stay two weeks post-surgery before returning home, with access to follow-up care for complications.

While clinics curate a highly supportive experience, it’s essential to communicate aesthetic preferences clearly, as local surgeons may default to the "Korean beauty standard," which could differ from each patient's desired look. Prospective clients should confirm their surgeon’s international experience and clinic certifications.

Cost Analysis: A Medical Tourist's Financial Perspective

Cost of Chin Surgery in South Korea

Surgery in South Korea tends to be more affordable than in Western countries. Here are average prices:

• Chin Implant: About $7,000, with a general range from $1,900 to $8,000.
• Sliding Genioplasty: Roughly $4,000 on average, ranging from $3,000 to $5,000.
• Chin Liposuction: Averages $1,683, with quotes from $1,000 to $2,000.

Surgical packages typically cover pre-op tests, the procedure, medications, and standard aftercare, though extended hospital stays for recovery or complications will increase costs.

A Global Cost Comparison

The lower fee in Korea is offset by travel and living expenses for medical tourists. Ancillary costs—like flights and accommodation—should be added to the total budget.

Table 3: Estimated Chin Surgery Costs – South Korea vs. Other Destinations

Country	Chin Implant (Estimated Range)	Genioplasty (Estimated Range)
South Korea	$1,900–$8,000	$3,000–$8,000
The USA	$4,900–$10,000+	$8,000–$15,000+
Turkey	$2,000–$10,299	$2,000–$3,900
Thailand	$1,400–$2,000	$4,457–$5,348
India	$1,500–$1,800	$1,500–$1,800

Savings can be significant—up to 60% for genioplasty and 70% for chin implants compared to U.S. prices—but a two-week stay can add $1,330–$3,600 to the final bill. Prospective patients must weigh these factors to decide if medical tourism fits their financial expectations.

Patient Narratives: Outcomes, Confidence, and Reality

The Physical Transformation

Patient experiences routinely highlight dramatic improvements in facial profile and symmetry, especially after sliding advancement genioplasty, which can bring the bone forward by 6–9mm. Even in severe cases (like pronounced microgenia), chin implants can deliver satisfying, balanced results. Many combine chin augmentation with ancillary procedures, such as rhinoplasty or neck liposuction, to enhance overall facial harmony.

The Impact on Confidence and Self-Esteem

Patients report significant boosts in confidence and well-being after chin augmentation. Those who felt self-conscious due to a weak chin often describe the procedure as "life-changing," helping them stop worrying about their looks and engage more freely socially and academically.

The Recovery Experience: A Realistic Look

Recovery takes patience. Initial weeks bring swelling, bruising, and temporary numbness in the chin or lower lip. Patients typically follow a soft or liquid diet and avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks. Visible results take months to fully mature, reinforcing the need for realistic expectations and a patient outlook during the healing process.

Conclusion

A receding chin can have profound effects on both appearance and health, making a professional medical assessment the first step toward treatment. Options range from non-surgical fillers to more permanent surgical procedures like chin implants and sliding genioplasty, each with its trade-offs in invasiveness, permanence, and customization. South Korea is a leading destination for chin surgery, but patients should weigh all expenses and ensure clear communication with providers. Ultimately, with thorough research and realistic expectations, chin augmentation can deliver lasting physical and psychological benefits.

References

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