Which Chin Augmentation Surgery Is Right for You in Korea?

Chin augmentation surgery in Korea is commonly performed using two main techniques: chin implant surgery and sliding genioplasty. While both aim to improve chin projection and facial balance, they differ significantly in method, indication, permanence, and level of structural correction.

This guide explains the key differences to help patients understand which option may be more appropriate based on facial anatomy and aesthetic goals.



What Is Chin Implant Surgery?

Chin implant surgery enhances chin projection by placing a pre-shaped medical implant over the existing chin bone. It does not alter the bone structure itself.

Key Characteristics

• Adds forward projection
• Shorter surgery time
• Predictable shape and size
• Less invasive than bone surgery

Best For

• Mild to moderate chin retrusion
• Patients seeking simpler surgery
• Those wanting permanent results without bone cutting

Chin implants are commonly chosen when the jaw alignment is normal and only projection needs improvement.

What Is Sliding Genioplasty?

Sliding genioplasty is a bone-based chin advancement procedure. The chin bone is surgically cut, moved forward (or reshaped), and fixed in a new position.

Key Characteristics

• Uses the patient’s own bone
• Allows adjustment of projection, height, and symmetry
• Highly precise and customizable
• Often recommended for structural imbalance

Best For

• Significant chin retrusion
• Vertical chin issues (long or short chin)
• Facial asymmetry
• Patients already undergoing jaw surgery

In Korea, sliding genioplasty is often selected for patients who need structural correction rather than simple augmentation.

Aesthetic Results: Natural Look vs Structural Change

Chin Implant Surgery

• Produces subtle enhancement
• Maintains original bone structure
• Best for smoothing profile imbalance

Sliding Genioplasty

• Can dramatically change chin position
• Improves both profile and front-view proportions
• Better for comprehensive lower-face balance

Korean surgeons typically prioritize facial harmony, avoiding over-projection regardless of the method used.

Recovery & Downtime Comparison

Chin Implant

• Swelling: 1–2 weeks
• Return to daily activity: ~7 days
• Final contour: 2–3 months

Sliding Genioplasty

• Swelling: 2–4 weeks
• Return to daily activity: 2–3 weeks
• Final contour: 3–6 months

Sliding genioplasty requires a longer recovery due to bone healing.

Safety & Stability Considerations

• Chin implants rely on proper sizing and fixation
• Sliding genioplasty offers maximum long-term stability since it uses natural bone
• Both procedures are considered safe when performed by experienced facial contouring surgeons

In Korea, extensive 3D CT planning is used to minimize risks and improve symmetry for both techniques.

Which Option Is Better?

There is no universally “better” option—only a more suitable one based on anatomy.

Chin Implant Is Often Better If:

• Chin retrusion is mild
• Jaw alignment is normal
• You want a less invasive procedure
• You prefer shorter recovery

Sliding Genioplasty Is Often Better If:

• Chin retrusion is significant
• Vertical or asymmetry issues exist
• You want full structural correction
• You are already planning jaw surgery

A professional consultation is essential to determine the correct approach.

Chin Implant vs Sliding Genioplasty in Korea: Final Thoughts

Korea is a global leader in chin augmentation because of its diagnosis-driven approach. Rather than defaulting to one method, Korean surgeons select chin implant surgery or sliding genioplasty based on facial proportions, bone structure, and long-term balance.

Understanding the difference between these two procedures helps patients make informed decisions and achieve natural, stable, and proportionate results.