Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior has caught the eye of the footballing world with a significant new look following Brazil’s exit from the World Cup. The forward reportedly underwent a cosmetic procedure known as chin harmonization to alter his facial profile.
The change was first reported by the Brazilian news site TMC. They noted that the surgery took place at a clinic in Goiânia, Brazil. The procedure was carried out by specialist dermatologist Dr Alessandro Alarcão.
What is Chin Harmonization?
Chin harmonization, also known as mentoplasty or genioplasty, is a procedure designed to reshape or reposition the chin. The goal is to create a better facial balance between the nose, lips, and jawline. Specialists can perform this either surgically or through non-surgical methods.
In the case of the Brazilian international, the procedure reportedly involved the use of fillers. These are used to add volume and projection to the chin area. According to reports, the treatment “uses fillers to sculpt the facial contour”.
How the Procedure Works
There are three primary ways to achieve this facial balance. The first is non-surgical, involving the injection of biocompatible fillers like hyaluronic acid.This method offers immediate results with very little downtime.
The second method is surgical augmentation using silicone implants. These are placed through small incisions inside the mouth or under the chin. The third method, osseous genioplasty, involves cutting and repositioning the actual chin bone.
For those choosing fillers, the results are not permanent. These typically last between 12 and 24 months depending on the specific product used. In contrast, surgical options provide a permanent change to the facial structure.
A Staggering Transformation
The results of the procedure have been described as staggering. Vinicius Junior was seen in recent social media posts appearing alongside his ex-girlfriend, Virginia Fonseca. The pair were photographed at a gym on a Monday following the surgery.
Recovery and Results
Recovery times vary significantly based on the method chosen.Non-surgical fillers may only cause slight swelling or bruising for a few days. Surgical implants usually require seven to ten days for swelling to subside.
Bone repositioning is the most intensive option, requiring up to two weeks of downtime and a soft-food diet. Most patients seek the treatment to correct a "weak" or receding chin. It can also help reduce the appearance of a double chin by improving the jawbone's definition.
The 26-year-old star appears confident with the results. Following the procedure, he has been seen smiling in several surfaced photos. 
It remains to be seen if this new look marks a fresh start for the player as he returns to club football.
