Medical Tourism Blog
Chin Dimpling Solutions: Chin Botox and Chin Surgery in Korea for a Smooth Jawline

Table of contents
- What is Chin Dimpling?
- Medical Procedures for Chin Dimpling
- Getting Chin Procedures in South Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide
- Costs and Medical Tourism: South Korea vs. The World
- Patient Journeys: Before & After Chin Dimpling Treatment
- Conclusion
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Chin dimpling, often described as "orange peel" or "cobblestone" skin, is a common cosmetic concern for many people. While it’s a natural feature for some, others may seek ways to smooth out their chin’s texture. This guide is designed to help you understand chin dimpling, explore treatment options, learn about procedures in South Korea, consider costs, and hear from real patients about their experiences.
What is Chin Dimpling?
Chin dimpling refers to an uneven, bumpy, or pitted texture on the chin, often compared to the surface of an orange peel. It can show up as horizontal creases or a “balling up” of the chin when you move your facial muscles. Sometimes, these indentations are visible even when your face is at rest.
Common Pseudonyms
You might hear chin dimpling called by several names, including:
- Cobblestone Chin
- Orange Peel Chin
- Golf Ball Chin
- Peach Pit Chin
- Peau d’Orange (French for “orange peel skin”)
While “peau d’orange” is often used to describe chin dimpling, it can also signal serious medical conditions when seen elsewhere on the body, such as inflammatory breast cancer or lymphedema. If you notice this texture on other areas, it’s important to seek medical advice.
Underlying Causes
Understanding what causes chin dimpling is key to finding the right treatment. Several factors can play a role:
- Overactive Mentalis Muscle: The main cause is usually an overactive mentalis muscle, which sits in the chin and controls movements like closing your mouth or puckering your lips. When this muscle is too active, it pulls the skin inward, creating dimples.
- Genetics and Structural Factors:
- Cleft Chin: A genetic trait where a gap in the chin muscle creates a central dimple.
- Recessed Chin (Retrogenia): A chin that sits back from the face can force the mentalis muscle to work harder, making dimpling more noticeable.
- Overbite: This can make the chin less prominent and contribute to dimpling.
- Age-Related Changes: As we age, bone resorption, fat loss, and decreased skin elasticity can all make chin dimpling worse. The mentalis muscle may also change, either weakening or becoming more active.
- Synkinesis: Sometimes, nerve miswiring after trauma or surgery causes involuntary chin movements, leading to dimpling.
Table 1: Common Pseudonyms and Causes of Chin Dimpling
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Common Pseudonyms | Cobblestone Chin, Orange Peel Chin, Golf Ball Chin, Peach Pit Chin, Peau d’Orange |
| Primary Cause | Overactivity of the Mentalis Muscle |
| Contributing Factors | Genetics (e.g., cleft chin), Structural Issues (e.g., recessed chin, overbite), Age-Related Changes (bone/fat loss, muscle hypertrophy), Synkinesis (nerve damage) |
Medical Procedures for Chin Dimpling
Treating chin dimpling can involve non-surgical injections or surgical procedures, depending on the cause and your goals.
Chin Botox (Botulinum Toxin Injections)
Chin Botox is a popular, non-surgical way to treat chin dimpling caused by an overactive mentalis muscle.
- How It Works: Botulinum toxin type A (Botox) temporarily relaxes the mentalis muscle by blocking nerve signals, smoothing out the skin.
- Target Areas: The injections are placed precisely in the mentalis muscle. Careful placement is important to avoid affecting nearby muscles, which could cause issues like lip drooping.
- Expected Results: You can expect smoother skin, reduced “orange peel” texture, softer creases above the chin, and improved facial symmetry. Results start to show in 1–3 days, with full effects in 1–2 weeks.
- Side Effects and Contraindications: Most people experience mild swelling or bruising. Rarely, more serious symptoms like muscle weakness or allergic reactions can occur. Botox isn’t recommended for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have certain neuromuscular conditions.
- How Long It Lasts: Results typically last 3–4 months, sometimes up to 6 months. Repeat treatments are needed to maintain the effect.
While dermal fillers can add volume to the chin, Botox is usually the best choice for muscle-induced dimpling. A proper diagnosis is essential to choose the right treatment.
Chin Surgery (Genioplasty & Chin Implants)

Chin surgery, also called mentoplasty or genioplasty, is a surgical option for reshaping the chin and improving facial balance. It’s often used for structural issues like a recessed or asymmetrical chin, which can worsen dimpling.
- Chin Implants:
- Procedure: Performed under anesthesia, a small incision is made (often inside the mouth in Korea), and a silicone or Medpor implant is placed over the chin bone.
- Pros: Quick procedure, minimal downtime, and permanent results.
- Cons: Limited ability to adjust width or height, rare risk of shifting or infection, and some may not like having a permanent implant.
- Sliding Genioplasty:
- Procedure: Under general anesthesia, the chin bone is cut and repositioned, then secured with titanium plates and screws.
- Pros: Allows for more comprehensive changes to chin shape, uses your own bone, and results are permanent.
- Cons: Longer recovery, more swelling and discomfort, and a slightly higher risk of complications.
Surgical procedures are usually part of a broader facial contouring plan, especially if a recessed chin is making dimpling worse.
Table 2: Chin Botox vs. Chin Surgery: A Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Chin Botox (Botulinum Toxin Injections) | Chin Surgery (Implants/Genioplasty) |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure Type | Non-surgical injection | Surgical bone repositioning or implant |
| Primary Target | Overactive mentalis muscle | Bone structure and chin shape |
| Invasiveness | Minimally invasive | Invasive |
| Downtime | Minimal (hours to 1 day) | Weeks (1–6 weeks) |
| Longevity | Temporary (3–6 months) | Permanent or long-lasting |
| Adjustability | Limited to muscle relaxation | Full control over width, height, projection |
| Foreign Material | Botulinum toxin (protein) | Silicone/Medpor implants or titanium plates |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
Table 3: Chin Implant vs. Sliding Genioplasty: Detailed Comparison
| Aspect | Chin Implant | Sliding Genioplasty |
|---|---|---|
| Procedure Type | Implant placement | Bone repositioning |
| Materials Used | Silicone or Medpor implant | Titanium plates and screws |
| Recovery Time | 1–2 weeks | 4–6 weeks |
| Ability to Adjust Width/Height | Limited (mainly projection) | Full control |
| Foreign Material | Yes (implant) | Yes (plates/screws) |
| Cost | Lower (standard implants) | Higher (complexity, time) |
| Scarring | Minimal, often hidden | None (intraoral incision) |
| Risk of Shifting | Low but possible | None (bone is fixed) |
| Durability | Permanent, may change over time | Permanent (bone fuses) |
Getting Chin Procedures in South Korea: A Step-by-Step Guide
South Korea is a top destination for cosmetic procedures, thanks to advanced technology, skilled surgeons, and competitive prices. Here’s what to expect if you’re considering chin treatments there.
Best Clinics in Korea for Chin Dimpling
Listed below are the best clinics in Korea for chin dimpling:
| Clinic Name | Key Features | Special Techniques |
|---|---|---|
| D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic Website | - DA Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the best choice for chin dimpling in Korea because it combines deep expertise in chin and lower-face aesthetics with a fully integrated approach to facial harmony, all delivered by a skilled team in a safe, comfortable setting at Gangnam Station. - With genioplasty at the core and the ability to pair it with shaping V-line surgery, turning zygoma reduction, and even comprehensive jaw procedures like Smile Triple Jaw Surgery when structure affects chin appearance, the clinic can tailor treatment plans that address both the source and the look of chin dimpling. - For patients seeking refinement after prior procedures, revision facial contouring adds a corrective pathway, while lifting options such as minimal incision lifting, Elasticum lifting, and facial contouring lifting support subtle contour improvement. - Complementary skin-focused treatments—including Skin Elasticity Treatment, Ulthera Tuner, Thermage FLX, and thread lifting—help optimize perimental skin quality and tone, which can influence how chin dimpling presents. - This breadth of advanced options, combined with truly personalized care from consultation to recovery, makes DA Plastic Surgery Clinic a comprehensive destination for achieving balanced, naturally refined chin aesthetics. | - Genioplasty (core) - Pairing with shaping V-line surgery - Turning zygoma reduction - Comprehensive jaw procedures like Smile Triple Jaw Surgery - Revision facial contouring - Minimal incision lifting - Elasticum lifting - Facial contouring lifting - Skin Elasticity Treatment - Ulthera Tuner - Thermage FLX - Thread lifting |
| ID Hospital - Sinsa Website | - ID Hospital – Sinsa is a leading aesthetic clinic in Seoul known for advanced, minimally invasive treatments that enhance facial harmony with precision and care. For chin dimpling, the clinic’s comprehensive, combination-based approach stands out: it addresses the muscle activity that causes “orange-peel” texture, restores volume where dimples and creases form, refines the chin–jawline contour, and upgrades skin quality for a smoother, more uniform finish—all with personalized planning to match individual goals and timelines. | - Targeted muscle relaxation with Botox to smooth chin dimpling caused by overactive mentalis muscles, while preserving natural expression - Strategic fillers to soften dimples and creases, restore volume, and refine the chin profile with immediate, natural-looking results - ID Contouring Injection to non-surgically slim and define the lower face, complementing dimpling correction without any downtime - Skin quality optimization with Exosome Boosters, Rejuran Healer, and Juvelook to improve elasticity, texture, and hydration for a smoother chin surface - Lifting and tightening with Shringk Universe to subtly reshape facial contours and support a firmer, more even lower face with minimal discomfort and no downtime - Tone and redness refinement around the chin with Pico Toning and Excel V Laser for a brighter, more uniform complexion that visually minimizes dimpling - Personalized consultation via ID Premium Elanse to design a tailored plan that combines injectables, contouring, and skin boosters for durable, natural results - Broad aesthetic expertise under one roof, enabling precise sequencing of treatments and efficient visits in the heart of Sinsa |
| id Hospital Korea Website | - ID Hospital Korea is a clinic focused on facial treatments, dedicated to safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized plans, patient safety–oriented care, and systematic post-care. - Why ID Hospital Korea is the best clinic for Chin Dimpling - Facial specialty at the core: A strong focus on facial treatments and facial contouring provides nuanced expertise in the lower face and chin, where dimpling occurs. - Customized planning: Treatment is tailored to whether chin dimpling appears at rest or with movement, aiming for natural, balanced outcomes that suit each patient’s features. - Full-spectrum solutions in one place: From petit plastic surgery and skin clinic options to structural approaches via facial contouring and orthognathic surgery, patients can receive the most appropriate, staged care for their needs. - Functional and aesthetic integration: Dentistry and jaw-focused services allow evaluation of bite and muscle dynamics that can contribute to chin puckering, supporting longer-lasting results. - Safety-first approach: A patient safety–oriented system underpins consultation, procedure, and recovery, prioritizing risk minimization in the delicate chin area. - Systematic post-care: Structured follow-up and aftercare support smoother recovery and help maintain refined chin texture and contour. - Natural, beautiful results: The hospital’s philosophy centers on achieving beauty through safety and personalization, aligning treatment choices with each patient’s facial harmony. | - Orthognathic surgery - Facial contouring - Eye and nose plastic surgery - Breast surgery - Lifting - Skin clinic - Petit plastic surgery - Dentistry |
D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic
DA Plastic Surgery Clinic stands out as the best choice for chin dimpling in Korea because it combines deep expertise in chin and lower-face aesthetics with a fully integrated approach to facial harmony, all delivered by a skilled team in a safe, comfortable setting at Gangnam Station. With genioplasty at the core and the ability to pair it with shaping V-line surgery, turning zygoma reduction, and even comprehensive jaw procedures like Smile Triple Jaw Surgery when structure affects chin appearance, the clinic can tailor treatment plans that address both the source and the look of chin dimpling. For patients seeking refinement after prior procedures, revision facial contouring adds a corrective pathway, while lifting options such as minimal incision lifting, Elasticum lifting, and facial contouring lifting support subtle contour improvement. Complementary skin-focused treatments—including Skin Elasticity Treatment, Ulthera Tuner, Thermage FLX, and thread lifting—help optimize perimental skin quality and tone, which can influence how chin dimpling presents. This breadth of advanced options, combined with truly personalized care from consultation to recovery, makes DA Plastic Surgery Clinic a comprehensive destination for achieving balanced, naturally refined chin aesthetics.
Find more about this clinic here: D.A Plastic Surgery Clinic Website
ID Hospital - Sinsa
ID Hospital – Sinsa is a leading aesthetic clinic in Seoul known for advanced, minimally invasive treatments that enhance facial harmony with precision and care. For chin dimpling, the clinic’s comprehensive, combination-based approach stands out: it addresses the muscle activity that causes “orange-peel” texture, restores volume where dimples and creases form, refines the chin–jawline contour, and upgrades skin quality for a smoother, more uniform finish—all with personalized planning to match individual goals and timelines.
- Targeted muscle relaxation with Botox to smooth chin dimpling caused by overactive mentalis muscles, while preserving natural expression
- Strategic fillers to soften dimples and creases, restore volume, and refine the chin profile with immediate, natural-looking results
- ID Contouring Injection to non-surgically slim and define the lower face, complementing dimpling correction without any downtime
- Skin quality optimization with Exosome Boosters, Rejuran Healer, and Juvelook to improve elasticity, texture, and hydration for a smoother chin surface
- Lifting and tightening with Shringk Universe to subtly reshape facial contours and support a firmer, more even lower face with minimal discomfort and no downtime
- Tone and redness refinement around the chin with Pico Toning and Excel V Laser for a brighter, more uniform complexion that visually minimizes dimpling
- Personalized consultation via ID Premium Elanse to design a tailored plan that combines injectables, contouring, and skin boosters for durable, natural results
- Broad aesthetic expertise under one roof, enabling precise sequencing of treatments and efficient visits in the heart of Sinsa
Find more about this clinic here: ID Hospital - Sinsa Website
id Hospital Korea
ID Hospital Korea is a clinic focused on facial treatments, dedicated to safe and beautiful plastic surgery through customized plans, patient safety–oriented care, and systematic post-care. With a comprehensive service lineup that includes orthognathic surgery, facial contouring, eye and nose plastic surgery, breast surgery, lifting, a skin clinic, petit plastic surgery, and dentistry, the hospital offers end-to-end solutions for facial harmony—making it especially well-positioned to address concerns like chin dimpling.
Why ID Hospital Korea is the best clinic for Chin Dimpling
- Facial specialty at the core: A strong focus on facial treatments and facial contouring provides nuanced expertise in the lower face and chin, where dimpling occurs.
- Customized planning: Treatment is tailored to whether chin dimpling appears at rest or with movement, aiming for natural, balanced outcomes that suit each patient’s features.
- Full-spectrum solutions in one place: From petit plastic surgery and skin clinic options to structural approaches via facial contouring and orthognathic surgery, patients can receive the most appropriate, staged care for their needs.
- Functional and aesthetic integration: Dentistry and jaw-focused services allow evaluation of bite and muscle dynamics that can contribute to chin puckering, supporting longer-lasting results.
- Safety-first approach: A patient safety–oriented system underpins consultation, procedure, and recovery, prioritizing risk minimization in the delicate chin area.
- Systematic post-care: Structured follow-up and aftercare support smoother recovery and help maintain refined chin texture and contour.
- Natural, beautiful results: The hospital’s philosophy centers on achieving beauty through safety and personalization, aligning treatment choices with each patient’s facial harmony.
Find more about this clinic here: id Hospital Korea Website
Chin Botox in South Korea
- Consultation: Meet with a dermatologist or plastic surgeon to assess your chin and discuss your goals.
- Preparation: The area is cleaned and marked. Numbing cream or ice may be used.
- Injection: Botox is injected into the mentalis muscle. The process takes 5–15 minutes.
- Aftercare: Avoid rubbing the area for 12–24 hours, keep your head elevated, and avoid strenuous activity for a day. Minor swelling or redness is common but fades quickly.
- Results: Improvements start in 3–7 days, with full results in 10–14 days. Effects last 3–6 months.
Table 4: Step-by-Step: Getting Chin Botox in South Korea
| Step | Description | Key Considerations/Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Consultation | Assessment by dermatologist or surgeon, discuss goals, review history | Tailors the treatment plan |
| 2. Preparation | Area cleaned and marked, numbing cream optional | Discomfort is mild |
| 3. Injection | Botox injected into mentalis muscle | 4–20 units, varies by individual |
| 4. Aftercare | Avoid rubbing, keep head elevated, avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours | Minimal downtime |
| 5. Results | Effects in 3–7 days, full results in 10–14 days | Temporary, maintenance needed |
Chin Surgery in South Korea

- Consultation and 3D Imaging: Meet with a plastic surgeon, discuss your goals, and use 3D imaging to plan your surgery.
- Pre-op Evaluations: Blood tests and imaging ensure you’re a good candidate.
- Surgery: Performed under anesthesia, with incisions inside the mouth or under the chin. Implants are placed or the chin bone is repositioned.
- Recovery: Expect swelling and bruising for 1–2 weeks. Follow care instructions, eat soft foods, and avoid strenuous activity for 2–4 weeks. Most return to work in 1–2 weeks (implants) or 7–10 days (genioplasty).
- Stay in Korea: Plan to stay 10–14 days after surgery for follow-up care.
Table 5: Step-by-Step: Getting Chin Surgery in South Korea
| Step | Description | Key Considerations/Tips |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Consultation & Planning | Meet surgeon, use 3D imaging, plan surgery | Personalized plan, visualize results |
| 2. Pre-op Evaluations | Blood tests, imaging | Ensures safety |
| 3. Surgery | Anesthesia, incision, implant or bone repositioning | Intraoral incision common in Korea |
| 4. Aftercare | Swelling, bruising, incision care, antibiotics | Head elevation helps swelling |
| 5. Recovery | Soft foods, avoid strenuous activity, return to work in 1–2 weeks | Follow instructions for best healing |
| 6. Stay in Korea | 10–14 days for follow-up and suture removal | Ensures smooth recovery |
Costs and Medical Tourism: South Korea vs. The World
South Korea is known for affordable, high-quality cosmetic procedures.
Cost of Chin Botox in South Korea
- Price Range: ₩100,000–₩750,000 KRW ($69–$517 USD)
- What’s Included: Many clinics offer packages that may include multiple treatment areas, transportation, accommodation, and translation services.
- Factors Affecting Cost: Clinic type, Botox brand, and clinic location can all influence the price.
Cost of Chin Surgery in South Korea
- Genioplasty: ₩4,000,000–₩6,800,000 KRW ($3,000–$5,000 USD), sometimes up to $9,000 for jaw shaping.
- Chin Implant: Starts at ₩4,400,000 KRW ($3,100 USD), with most procedures ranging from ₩7,200,000–₩7,900,000 KRW ($4,960–$5,440 USD).
- What’s Included: Consultations, post-op care, medications, anesthesia, surgeon’s fee, and sometimes overnight clinic stays.
- Factors Affecting Cost: Procedure complexity, surgeon’s reputation, clinic location, and implant material.
Comparative Costs for Medical Tourists
- Affordability: South Korea offers significant savings compared to Western countries.
- Advanced Technology: Clinics use cutting-edge tools like 3D imaging.
- Skilled Surgeons: Many are board-certified and experienced with international patients.
- Comprehensive Care: Translation services and medical tourism agencies help with logistics and cost savings.
- Travel Costs: Flights from North America or Europe typically range from $600–$1,200.
Table 6: Comparative Costs of Chin Botox by Country (USD)
| Country | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| South Korea | $69 – $517 |
| United States | $200 – $1,200 |
Table 7: Comparative Costs of Chin Surgery (Implants/Genioplasty) by Country (USD)
| Country | Procedure Type | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| South Korea | Genioplasty | $3,000 – $9,000 |
| Chin Implant | $3,100 – $5,440 | |
| United States | Chin Implant | $2,500 – $10,000 |
| Genioplasty | $10,000 | |
| Mexico | Chin Implant | $900 – $3,600 |
| Turkey | Chin Implant | $2,000 – $10,299 |
| Genioplasty | $2,000 – $3,000 | |
| Thailand | Chin Implant | $1,400 – $2,000 |
| UK | Chin Implant | $4,100 – $6,800 |
| Genioplasty | $6,000 – $7,500 | |
| Australia | Chin Implant | $2,800 – $5,600 |
| Genioplasty | $3,440 – $10,320 |
Patient Journeys: Before & After Chin Dimpling Treatment
Hearing from real patients can help you understand what to expect.
Outcomes of Chin Botox for Dimpling
Most patients who try Chin Botox notice a smoother chin and a big reduction in the “orange peel” effect. The treatment is quick, safe, and has little downtime. Results last 3–6 months, and some people find that relaxing their chin muscles can help results last longer.
Outcomes of Chin Surgery for Dimpling and Related Concerns
Chin surgery offers a more dramatic and lasting change, especially for those with structural issues. Patients often report a more balanced facial profile and a boost in self-confidence. Results are permanent (implants) or long-lasting (genioplasty), and satisfaction rates are high.
Conclusion
Chin dimpling can have several causes, from muscle activity to genetics and aging. Chin Botox is a quick, effective way to smooth muscle-induced dimpling, while chin surgery addresses structural concerns for lasting results. South Korea stands out for its advanced care, skilled surgeons, and affordability, making it a top choice for medical tourists. Ultimately, consulting with a qualified professional is the best way to choose the right treatment and achieve your desired outcome.
References
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