LCU - Face Shape Change

aesthetic

Face Shape Change

LCU - Face Shape Change

Facial shape surgery focuses on improving balance, proportion, and harmony between facial features. Rather than addressing ageing alone, these procedures are designed to refine the underlying facial structure to create a more defined, contoured, or balanced appearance. Facial shape surgery can enhance natural features, soften strong angles, or improve symmetry while preserving individuality and expression. The goal is subtle, refined change that complements the rest of the face.

The Procedure

What Is Facial Shape Surgery?

Facial shape surgery refers to a group of surgical procedures that alter or refine the contours of the face by reshaping bone, cartilage, or soft tissue. These procedures may enhance definition, reduce prominence, or restore proportion between facial features. Facial shape surgery can be performed for aesthetic reasons or to correct asymmetry caused by genetics, injury, or developmental differences.

Facial shape surgery may address:

  • A wide or heavy jawline
  • Weak or recessed chin
  • Imbalance between the upper, mid, and lower face
  • Facial asymmetry
  • Lack of facial definition

Each treatment plan is highly individual and based on facial anatomy and personal goals.

Common Procedures

Facial shape surgery may involve one or more of the following procedures:

  • Chin Surgery (Genioplasty)
    • Enhances or reduces chin projection
    • Improves facial balance and profile
    • Can involve bone repositioning or implants
  • Jawline Contouring
    • Reduces jaw width or enhances jaw definition
    • May involve bone reshaping or soft tissue contouring
  • Cheek Augmentation
    • Enhances cheek structure and midface projection
    • Performed using implants or fat grafting
  • Buccal Fat Reduction
    • Reduces fullness in the lower cheeks
    • Creates a more contoured facial appearance
  • Facial Implants
    • Used to enhance chin, cheeks, or jawline
    • Designed to achieve subtle, natural definition

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for facial shape surgery if:

  • You feel certain facial features lack balance or definition
  • You are concerned about facial asymmetry or proportions
  • Your facial structure has fully developed
  • You are in good overall health
  • You have realistic expectations about outcomes

Facial shape surgery is usually best suited to patients whose facial growth is complete, typically in adulthood.

Consultation Process

The consultation process is detailed and personalised, focusing on facial analysis and aesthetic goals. It includes:

  • Discussion of concerns and desired changes
  • Assessment of facial proportions, symmetry, and structure
  • Review of medical history and suitability for surgery
  • Clinical photography and, when needed, imaging or 3D planning
  • Creation of a tailored treatment plan with clear explanations of procedures, risks, recovery, and expected results

Recovery and Downtime

Recovery varies depending on the procedures performed, but commonly:

  • Swelling and bruising are expected in the first 1–2 weeks
  • Most patients return to normal daily activities within 1–2 weeks
  • Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks
  • Final results become more apparent as swelling gradually settles
  • Follow-up appointments ensure safe healing and optimal outcomes

Risks and Benefits

Benefits include:

  • Improved facial balance and harmony
  • Enhanced definition and contour
  • Correction of asymmetry
  • Natural-looking, long-lasting results
  • Increased confidence and self-esteem

Risks may include:

  • Swelling and bruising
  • Infection or bleeding
  • Nerve irritation or temporary numbness
  • Asymmetry or implant-related issues
  • Rarely, the need for revision surgery
  • General anaesthetic risks

Careful planning and experienced surgical care significantly reduce risk.

Results and Longevity

Facial shape surgery produces long-lasting results by modifying underlying facial structures. While the face continues to change naturally with age, surgical improvements in contour and proportion are generally permanent. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and stable weight helps preserve results, allowing patients to enjoy refined facial balance for many years.

Meet the Surgeons - London Craniofacial Unit

Meet The Clinical Team

Behind every successful outcome is a dedicated team. Meet the clinical team whose expertise and compassion make LCU world-renowned.

Testimonials

We’re proud to have helped patients from across the UK and around the world. Their stories inspire the work we do every day.

Our Locations

Wherever you meet us, you’ll receive the same world-class expertise and compassionate care. Our surgeons work across some of London’s most respected hospitals and private clinics.

Our Locations - London Craniofacial Unit
Great Ormond Street Hospital - London Craniofacial UnitGreat Ormond Street Hospital - London Craniofacial Unit

Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH)

Professor David Dunaway and Owase Jeelani lead the world-renowned Craniofacial and Neurosurgery units at GOSH.
The Portland Hospital - London Craniofacial UnitThe Portland Hospital - London Craniofacial Unit

The Portland Hospital

The Portland is the UK’s largest private children’s hospital with a dedicated paediatric intensive care unit.
LCU - 84 Harley StreetLCU - 84 Harley Street

84 Harley Street

LCU take full advantage of this location to consult with patients in a relaxed environment.
LCU - 152 Harley StreetLCU - 152 Harley Street

152 Harley Street

Specialist consultations and advanced diagnostics in London’s leading medical district.
LCU - Weymouth Street HospitalLCU - Weymouth Street Hospital

Weymouth Street Hospital

LCU procedures are carried out at Weymouth Street Hospital’s advanced, patient-centred facilities.
LCU - The London ClinicLCU - The London Clinic

The London Clinic

The London Clinic is one of the UK’s leading private hospitals, located in central London near Harley Street.
LCU - The Wellington HospitalLCU - The Wellington Hospital

The Wellington Hospital

LCU performs their general anaesthesia adult plastic & reconstructive procedures here.

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The home of LCU — a world-leading centre for complex Craniofacial and Reconstructive Surgery.