Short Chin/Protruding Mouth
What is Short Chin?
A short chin or weak chin refers to a chin does not project or extend forward sufficiently in profile, often causing the lower face to lack definition
What is Protruding Mouth?
A protruding mouth is when the upper or lower jaw extends forward, giving the mouth a more prominent appearance compared to the rest of the facial structure. Both features can affect facial harmony and are sometimes viewed as aesthetic concerns.
Ideal Chin Characteristics:
An ideal chin is generally well-proportioned to the rest of the face and is aligned with other facial landmarks (The nose tip should align with the slope of the chin while the lower lip locate slightly backward from the slope):
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Forward Projection: The chin typically projects to a point that aligns with the lower lip and complements the nose in profile
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Balance: The chin is neither excessively long nor too short, contributing to a balanced lower third of the face.
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Jawline Definition: A defined jawline helps frame the face and gives it structure.
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Symmetry and Harmony: Ideally, the chin is balanced with other facial features, contributing to a symmetrical and harmonious appearance.
Symptoms of a Short Chin/Weak Chin:
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Lack of forward projection in the chin area
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A rounded or undefined jawline, especially in profile
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The chin may not align with other facial features, such as the nose or forehead
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Imbalance in the lower third of the face, leading to a less structured appearance
Symptoms of a Protruding Mouth:
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The mouth area may appear more forward-set than the chin or jaw
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Potential alignment issues with the upper and lower jaws
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An unbalanced profile, where the mouth looks more prominent compared to the chin and jaw
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Possible dental alignment issues, in some cases
Profile Balancing - Nose​ and Chin
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When examining the lips during the consultation, we will assess the profile as well. If a patient has a retracted chin, treating the lips can worsen this appearance. On the contrary, if their chin protrudes excessively, treating the lips only can make the nose appear flattened. The best option for these patients are to balance the nose-lip-chin ratio.
Short Chin Treatment Options:
Option 1: Teosyal RHA4 is a hyaluronic acid-based dermal filler that is particularly effective for adding volume and structure to areas needing support, such as the chin. It is designed to integrate well with facial movements and maintain a natural look.
It can be injected into the chin area to add forward projection, helping to balance the face in profile. By adding volume and contour, the filler creates a more defined chin and jawline, reducing the appearance of a 'weak chin'. Teosyal RHA4 is formulated for flexibility, allowing for natural movements without appearing stiff like putting an implant.
The results are immediate and the results usually last 15-18 months, depending on factors like metabolism and filler type.
Option 2: Injecting botulinum toxin into the mentalis muscle (the muscle in the chin area) can help improve teh appearance of a short or weak chin by relaxing the muscle, which can soften dimpling and improve the chin's contour.​
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Relieves Upward Pull on the Chin: When the mentalis muscle is overactive, it can pull the chin upwards and cause it to tuck in slightly, making the chin appear shorter. By relaxing this muscle with botulinum toxin, the upward pull is reduced, allowing the chin to appear slightly more elongated and natural in position.
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Reduces Chin Dimpling and 'Orange Peel' Texture: Hyperactive mentalis muscle can cause the chin to dimple or look bumpy, which can make a weak chin appear even less defined. Botulinum toxin injections in the mentalis muscle relax it, smoothing out the skin and reducing these dimples, resulting in a more refined chin surface.
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Improves Chin Projection in Some Cases: Although botulinum toxin does not add volume, reducing the mentalis muscle tightness can give the appearance of improved projection and a slightly more balanced profile.
The results typically last 4-6 months for the mentalis muscle relaxation.
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While botulinum toxin can soften the appearance and slightly improve projection by reducing muscle pull, dermal fillers like Teosyal RHA4 is often used in combination to add actual structure and forward projection to the chin. The results usually last around 15-18 months.
