What is Dimpleplasty?

Dimpleplasty is a minor surgical procedure performed through the inner cheek, where a small portion of muscle or fat is modified to create dimples for a more attractive and expressive smile. This quick and straightforward process can create dimples on the cheeks or other parts of the body, such as the upper buttocks.

Who is a Candidate for Dimple Surgery?

Dimpleplasty is suitable for individuals aged 18 and above who wish to have dimples when they smile. It’s not recommended for those under 18 due to incomplete facial development. The person must also be in good general health.
If you're currently losing weight, it’s advised to delay the procedure, as weight loss may alter the dimple's position. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also not ideal candidates for the procedure.

Creating Venus Dimples & Lower Back Dimples

Although dimples are mostly associated with cheeks, they can also be surgically created on the lower back or upper buttocks area, known as the "Venus dimples." These dimples enhance the body’s contours and are considered equally appealing.
The procedure takes around 20 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia, either unilaterally or bilaterally. Since Venus dimples are usually genetic and not formed through exercise, they are created using surgical methods such as liposuction and suturing.

Pre-Procedure Preparation

No special preparation is needed before dimple surgery. If the patient is not on blood thinners and has no underlying health issues, the operation can be completed in a short office visit under local anesthesia. Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon minimizes the risk of complications.

How is Cheek Dimple Surgery Performed?

The area where the dimple is desired is marked, and local anesthesia is applied. Then, through a small incision inside the mouth, the smile muscle is stitched to the inner cheek lining. If necessary, a small amount of fat or muscle tissue may be removed.
The sutures used are dissolvable, so there is no need to have them removed later. The procedure does not require hospitalization, and the patient can go home the same day.

Recovery Process

Patients can return to daily activities immediately. In the first three weeks, the dimple may appear deeper, and mild discoloration may occur, but these are temporary. Within a month, the dimple gains a more natural appearance.
Oral hygiene should be maintained using mouthwash for the first 3 days, and soft foods are recommended for the first 2 days. Swelling or bruising is rare. Local anesthesia may cause temporary numbness for a few hours.

Is Dimpleplasty Risky?

Since the procedure is performed under local anesthesia, it carries minimal risk. However, there is always a slight chance of infection or bleeding. One common issue is that the dimple may appear too deep. In such cases, a secondary procedure can adjust the result. A thorough consultation with the surgeon helps prevent this outcome.

Is Dimple Surgery Permanent?

The results are generally permanent. However, in individuals with fuller cheeks, the dimple may fade over time. In such cases, the surgery can be repeated, or the patient may first undergo buccal fat removal before having dimples created.

Can the Dimple be Reversed?

Dimpleplasty is one of the rare cosmetic surgeries that can be reversed. Some patients may be dissatisfied or change their minds. In such cases, fat injection or similar methods can restore the original appearance.

Is it a Painful Procedure?

Local anesthesia ensures that the patient feels no pain during the operation. A slight prick from the anesthesia injection may be felt, but postoperative pain is minimal and easily managed with mild painkillers.

Can I Return to Work Immediately?

Yes, patients can resume work the same day. Only the temporary numbness from anesthesia may require short rest, but no hospital stay or downtime is needed.

Will People Notice I Had Dimple Surgery?

During the first week, the dimple may appear deeper, making the surgery noticeable. However, it becomes more natural over time and eventually blends seamlessly with the face, making the procedure unnoticeable.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Will my facial expressions change?

  Since the procedure involves facial muscles, there may be minor temporary changes in expressions, but these usually resolve on their own.

• Can the dimple disappear?

  Though rare, dimples can fade over time. If this occurs, the surgery can be redone.

• Is general anesthesia required?

  Local anesthesia is usually sufficient, but general anesthesia can be used if preferred.

• What if I gain weight afterward?

  Weight gain can reduce the visibility of the dimple, which is also true for natural dimples.