Chin lift, also called chin lifting or mentoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery procedure aimed at correcting sagging skin and redefining the contours of the lower face. This technique tightens the skin, improves profile harmony, and reduces the appearance of double chin. A chin lift is ideal for anyone wanting a more defined jawline and a firmer neck, without altering the facial bone structure.
In practice, the procedure involves removing excess skin and, if necessary, fatty tissue from the chin area using discreet incisions under the chin or behind the ears. The choice of technique depends on the desired result and the patient’s morphology.
The average cost of a chin lift in France usually ranges from €2,500 to €5,000. This typically includes the surgeon’s fees, anesthesia and operating room costs, as well as pre- and postoperative consultations.
A chin lift falls in the mid-range price bracket—often less expensive than a full facelift but costlier than non-surgical techniques like injections. The price depends on the complexity and method used.
The chin lift distinguishes itself from other lower-face rejuvenation methods by being a surgical procedure. Unlike thread lifts or hyaluronic acid injections, the chin lift offers a lasting result for significant skin laxity.
Before any procedure, one or more consultations are needed with a qualified surgeon. During this appointment, the practitioner thoroughly assesses the degree of skin laxity, analyzes skin quality, and evaluates chin morphology. This is also the time for in-depth discussion about the technique chosen, what will happen, expected results, as well as risks and possible outcomes.
Medical photographs and a health check (sometimes including blood work) are performed. The surgeon also provides a detailed quote and preoperative instructions, such as stopping smoking or certain medications before the lift.
The chin lift is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or, in some cases, under general anesthesia. The procedure takes on average 1 to 2 hours, depending on complexity and how much skin needs to be removed.
The surgeon makes discreet incisions, most often under the chin and sometimes extending behind the ears. The skin is then lifted, tightened, and the excess is removed. If necessary, liposuction of the double chin can be combined for a more harmonious result. The incisions are closed with fine sutures to limit scar visibility.
Pain after a chin lift is usually moderate and well controlled with common painkillers. In the hours following surgery, swelling (edema) and some bruising may appear around the chin and neck.
A compressive dressing or bandage may be applied for a few days to support the tissues and reduce swelling. Depending on the technique and procedure extent, the patient can leave the same day or after a short overnight hospital stay.
Most of the recovery takes place at home. It is advised to allow for a social downtime of between 7 and 14 days, which is usually enough for the swelling and bruising to subside. Stitches are typically removed after a week, or may dissolve on their own if absorbable.
A gentle return to work and social activities is possible after about ten days, but heavy physical effort, lifting, and sun exposure should be avoided for about a month. Final results appear gradually between 2 and 3 months after the procedure.
For the vast majority of patients, a single chin lift session is enough to permanently correct localized skin laxity. Postoperative follow-up is nevertheless essential, with several appointments scheduled to monitor healing, spot any complications, and ensure the result.
In rare cases, an additional touch-up or further liposuction may be proposed, if irregularities or persistent fat are found.
The results of a chin lift are visible as soon as swelling subsides, usually in the 2 to 4 weeks following the operation. The chin looks firmer, the jawline more defined, and the neck regains a smoother, rejuvenated appearance. Scars are generally discreet, carefully placed under the chin or behind the ears for an optimal aesthetic outcome. The improvement is significant and the change remains natural-looking.
In terms of durability, the effects of a chin lift can last from 8 to 12 years, or even longer depending on age, skin quality, and patient lifestyle (smoking, sun exposure, weight fluctuations, etc.). Natural aging continues, but sagging will not return to its initial state. Proper skincare and medical follow-up can help prolong the benefits of the surgical procedure.
Like any cosmetic surgery, the chin lift carries its share of risks and requires specific attention during postoperative follow-up. The most frequent immediate complications are prolonged swelling, bruises, or infection at the incision sites. These situations are generally managed with close follow-up, appropriate treatment, and strict wound hygiene.
Healing problems, asymmetry, or hypertrophic scarring are also possible, though rare in well-selected and monitored patients. Temporary numbness or sensory disturbances around the chin are common after the procedure and usually resolve within a few weeks.
It is important to promptly notify your surgeon of any unusual pain, persistent redness, fever, or suspicious discharge at the incision sites. A schedule of postoperative visits—usually at one week, one month, and then three months—ensures optimal recovery and allows for rapid intervention if anomalies are detected.
