Types of facial profiles and how to correct them
The facial profile is one of the most important features in facial aesthetics, as it plays a key role in how we perceive our appearance. In many cases, a slight alteration in the profile can lead to aesthetic concerns, whether due to an underdefined jawline, a receding chin or a prominent nose. Fortunately, there are several treatments available to improve the facial profile and harmonise facial features.
In this article, we explore the main types of facial profiles, their characteristics and the treatments available to correct or improve them. If you are considering improving your profile and achieving a more balanced facial appearance, this guide may help you understand the different options.
In this video, Dr Riba explains the different types of facial profiles and how they can be corrected when necessary.
How many types of facial profiles are there?
There are five main types of facial profiles, which are defined according to the shape and alignment of the forehead, nose, lips, chin and jaw. Each profile has its own particular features and can be corrected or harmonised through a personalised treatment plan.
These are:
Types of facial profiles
1. Convex facial profile
A convex profile is characterised by a prominent forehead, a nose that projects slightly outwards and a receding chin. People with this type of profile often have less definition in the lower third of the face, which can create a sense of imbalance between the upper and lower parts of the face.
Treatments to correct a convex profile
These procedures aim to balance facial proportions, helping to achieve a more harmonious and aesthetically balanced profile.
Rhinoplasty
Nasal surgery can correct a prominent or deviated nose, helping to balance overall facial proportions.
Genioplasty
This is chin surgery designed to increase or reduce the size of the chin, or correct its position, in order to achieve greater facial harmony.
Orthognathic surgery
This surgery is performed to correct the position of the jaw, improving both facial aesthetics and bite function.
2. Concave facial profile
The concave profile is the opposite of the convex profile. It occurs when the chin is more advanced and the nose is small or set back. People with a concave profile often have a more prominent jaw and a well-defined jawline, although the nose may appear slightly smaller in proportion to the rest of the face.
Treatments to correct a concave profile
These treatments focus on enhancing facial structures to achieve a more proportionate and attractive appearance.
Augmentation rhinoplasty
In some cases, rhinoplasty may be required to increase the size or projection of the nose, helping to create a better balance with the rest of the face.
Chin implants
If the chin is too prominent or the facial proportions require adjustment, different surgical approaches can be considered to achieve a more balanced profile. The indication must always be assessed individually by a specialist.
The image shows a personalised 3D prosthesis for a patient at Face Clinic Spain, in this case for the chin and jaw.
3. Straight facial profile
The straight profile is considered one of the most balanced profiles, as the nose, chin and jawline are usually naturally aligned. However, in some cases, a straight profile may lack definition, making certain facial features appear less prominent.
Treatments to improve a straight profile
These treatments aim to add definition to the face while enhancing facial harmony and structure.
Cheekbone augmentation
To add volume and definition to the cheekbones, facial fillers or cheekbone surgery may be considered depending on the patient’s anatomy and expectations.
Jaw implants or chin implants
If the jaw or chin is not sufficiently defined, facial implants can help create a more structured and balanced appearance.
4. Asymmetrical facial profile
Facial asymmetry is quite common and may result from different causes, such as a previous facial fracture or differences in the size or position of the facial bone structures. People with an asymmetrical profile may have an irregular jawline or a misaligned chin.
Treatments to correct an asymmetrical profile
These procedures help balance facial features and improve facial symmetry.
Orthognathic surgery
This treatment can correct both jaw position and dental alignment, improving aesthetics as well as function.
Jaw implants
Jaw and chin implants can help correct certain types of asymmetry and create a more balanced facial profile.
Facial fillers
The use of fillers in specific areas of the face can help balance proportions in a less invasive way, although the result depends on the individual case and the type of asymmetry.
5. Underdefined facial profile
An underdefined or fuller facial profile is characterised by excess volume in areas such as the cheeks or the submental region, commonly known as a double chin. This can create a rounder facial appearance. People with this type of profile may feel that their face lacks definition, particularly around the jawline.
Treatments to improve an underdefined or fuller profile
These treatments are designed to refine the face and achieve a more defined, slimmer-looking appearance.
Facial liposuction or facial liposculpture
This procedure helps remove excess fat in areas such as the neck and cheeks, creating a more defined facial contour.
Buccal fat removal
This procedure involves removing the buccal fat pads, located in the cheek area, to achieve a more sculpted facial appearance and improve cheekbone and jawline definition.
How to choose the right treatment
The choice of treatment included in a profileplasty procedure depends on your type of facial profile, your anatomy and your expectations. It is important to consult a specialist in maxillofacial or aesthetic surgery to receive a personalised diagnosis and understand which procedure is most suitable for your needs.
At Face Clinic, our team of surgeons and specialists can help you improve your facial profile through treatments such as rhinoplasty, genioplasty, orthognathic surgery and other personalised procedures.
Specialist clinics for facial profile correction
At Face Clinic Spain, we have specialist clinics offering personalised solutions for facial profile harmonisation and correction. We use advanced techniques and innovative treatments adapted to each patient’s needs, always after an individual medical assessment.
Book your appointment at Face Clinic Spain
The facial profile is an important aspect of facial aesthetics, and there are different treatment options available to correct or improve a profile that may make you feel less comfortable with your appearance. Whether you are considering rhinoplasty, cheekbone augmentation, genioplasty or jaw implants, Face Clinic offers surgical and non-surgical solutions adapted to your needs to help achieve a more harmonious and balanced face.
Every case is unique, so consultation with a specialist is essential to assess your anatomy, expectations and the most appropriate treatment plan. Contact us to book your appointment and receive a personalised assessment.
Dr Francisco Riba García, specialist in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery (ICOMEM no. 28375865), has over 25 years of experience in Maxillofacial, Aesthetic and Facial Plastic Surgery.
He is the Medical Director and Founder of Face Clinic, Head of the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department at La Zarzuela and La Moraleja Hospitals (Madrid), and a member of the most prestigious scientific societies, including the European Board of Oro-Maxillo-Facial Surgery.
