2026-06-04
Differences Between T-Osteotomy and V-Osteotomy in Anterior Chin Surgery: How to Choose the Right Genioplasty for You
We summarize the types and characteristics of anterior chin surgery (genioplasty) that creates a slender V-line like Aespa's Karina. By understanding the differences between T-osteotomy and V-osteotomy, the criteria for choosing a surgical method based on facial proportions, and a checklist for safe surgery, you can expect highly satisfying facial contouring results.
The Impact of Genioplasty (Anterior Chin Surgery) on Facial Image
A slender face shape is considered one of the highest aesthetic standards. Recently, an increasing number of people are requesting consultations, aspiring to achieve a distinct V-line like Aespa's Karina. The tip of the chin, which completes the lower part of the face, plays a crucial role in determining your overall impression.
Anterior chin surgery is not simply about shaving the jaw; it is a process of adjusting the length of the chin to achieve the golden ratio for the entire face. Finely tuning the position and angle of the chin not only makes the face appear smaller than it actually is, but also helps form a three-dimensional side profile known as the E-line (Esthetic line).
T-Osteotomy vs. V-Osteotomy: Comparison of Characteristics, Pros, and Cons by Surgical Method
At 345 Plastic Surgery, we apply the most suitable osteotomy method based on the patient's individual bone condition and desired image. The characteristics of the two representative methods, T-osteotomy and V-osteotomy, are as follows.
1. T-Osteotomy
This is a method of cutting the tip of the chin into a 'T' shape and then removing the central bone fragment to reduce the width. It is advantageous for dramatically reducing the overall width of the chin and completes a sharp line by smoothly refining the secondary angles under both cheeks. However, it requires skilled technique as care must be taken to protect blood vessels when removing the bone fragment.
2. V-Osteotomy
This method involves cutting the tip of the chin into an inverted 'V' (ㅅ) shape, followed by an additional V-shaped osteotomy to make the chin slender. While the degree of width reduction may be less compared to T-osteotomy, it offers high stability due to a relatively lower risk of blood vessel damage. It is a suitable surgical method when combined with chin advancement or chin reduction surgery.
Guide to Choosing the Right Surgical Method for You
For effective results, it is important to choose a surgical method that fits your specific type.
| Type | Recommended Method | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| When the line from the side jaw to the front chin is wide | T-Osteotomy | Significant width reduction effect |
| When the width of the chin needs to be reduced significantly | T-Osteotomy | Definitive V-line improvement |
| When wanting to naturally improve a blunt chin tip | V-Osteotomy | Safe and natural change |
| When bone grafting or reduction must be performed together | V-Osteotomy | Suitable for complex surgeries |
4 Checkpoints for Successful Facial Contouring
For a satisfactory anterior chin surgery, you should check the following four balances.
- E-line (Side Profile): Harmony of the side profile line connecting the tip of the nose and the tip of the chin.
- Golden Ratio: Setting the width of the chin considering the ratio of the upper, middle, and lower face.
- Distinct Line: Sharply refining a previously unclear jawline.
- Customized Balance: A customized design optimized for the individual's facial features and face size.
Checking the Medical System for Safe Surgery
As facial contouring is a highly difficult surgery that deals with bones, the proficiency of the medical staff and the safety system are essential. At 345 Plastic Surgery, Chief Director Dr. Park Jong-rim, who has 20 years of experience, personally performs the surgeries. We enhance patient trust by having a resident anesthesiologist and installing CCTVs in all operating rooms.
In addition, we facilitate a smooth recovery through systematic aftercare with the '345 Doctor Call' service, where the director personally checks your condition within 24 hours after surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the biggest difference between T-osteotomy and V-osteotomy for chin surgery?
There are differences in the shape of the osteotomy and the effect of width reduction. T-osteotomy involves cutting the chin in a T-shape and removing the central bone, which is advantageous for significantly reducing width, while V-osteotomy involves cutting in a ㅅ-shape to lower the risk of blood vessel damage and naturally improve the chin.
My jaw is quite wide, what surgical method would be suitable?
If you need to significantly reduce the width of your jaw, T-osteotomy is more suitable. If the line from the side jaw to the front jaw is wide, removing the central bone fragment through T-osteotomy can dramatically reduce the overall width of the jaw and achieve a clear V-line improvement effect.
What are the advantages of V-osteotomy?
The biggest advantage is its high surgical stability due to a relatively low risk of blood vessel damage. While the degree of width reduction may be less than with T-osteotomy, it is very suitable for naturally improving a blunt chin or when performing complex surgeries such as genioplasty and reduction osteotomy with bone grafting.
What should I check for safe facial contouring surgery?
You must check the medical team's proficiency and the hospital's safety system. As it is a difficult surgery involving bones, please check if experienced medical staff are performing the surgery, if an anesthesiologist is present, if there is CCTV in the operating room, and if systematic post-operative care is provided.