CHIN TRAILING BACK
A receding chin is characterized by a chin positioned far back in relation to the rest of the face. It is also referred to as a recessed chin or retrognathia .
The 6 Grades of the Receding Chin
Every face is unique and there are an infinite number of face shapes. The 6 categories presented below attempt to show the differences between the different “levels” of receding chins .
A receding chin is particularly visible in profile. In general, it is characterized by:
- A chin back
- A poorly defined lower face line
- A double chin (sagging skin)
- A slightly marked mentolabial fold
- Sometimes a vertical wrinkle at the front of the chin
The 6 grades are obtained by digital simulation of 3D surgery from a photo.
Grade 0 – “Classic” chin
The chin is aligned with the rest of the face, particularly with the nasolabial junction. The lower part of the face is defined and forms a clear break with the neck.
Grade 1 – Chin very slightly back
The difference with the “classic” chin is really very slight and barely perceptible to the naked eye and if there is no element of comparison, even seen from the side. Any operation is strongly discouraged if there are no physical problems (difficulty chewing, bad dental occlusion, etc.).
Grade 2 – Slightly recessed chin
In this case, we begin to see the chin slightly recessed. The face will tend to have a double chin in certain positions. The lower line of the face is less marked but still visible.
Grade 3 – Chin back
The receding chin begins to become noticeable when viewed from the side. A small double chin may appear and the lower line of the face is less pronounced.
Grade 4 – Receding chin
The chin is pulled back, creating a double chin, even in a “normal” position. This can also create a vertical wrinkle at the front of the chin. The lower lip may be pulled down and tend to be more visible.
Grade 5 – Significantly receding chin, very far back
This is the most significant form with a very recessed chin, almost no separation between the face and neck, and a permanent double chin. This can cause dental occlusion problems, difficulty chewing, temporomandibular disorders, and sleep apnea.
When a person is bothered by their chin, they can go to a plastic and cosmetic surgeon or a maxillofacial surgeon and a dental surgeon. These facial professionals will be able to perform an examination and x-rays to determine if the problem is just physical (complexes, loss of self-confidence, etc.) or if it causes mechanical problems (difficulty chewing, breathing, poor dental occlusion , etc.). When the surgeon only operates on the chin without changing the position of the mandible (lower jaw), we speak of Genioplasty . When the receding chin is significant and requires surgery on the lower jaw (mandible), the dental surgeon and the maxillofacial surgeon will coordinate to modify the position of the jaw bones and teeth.
Genioplasty Simulator Before / After
Want to simulate a genioplasty ?
Upload your profile photo and tell us what type of changes you’d like to see on your chin. We’ll send you a modified photo to show you what it could look like. You can then show the photo to your surgeon to ask if the surgery is technically feasible and how much it will cost.