Dimples are often considered an attractive facial feature, and some people are naturally blessed with them. For others, however, dimples can be an aesthetic enhancement they’d love to have. Thanks to advances in cosmetic surgery, creating dimples is now possible through a procedure called dimpleplasty. If you’re considering getting dimples, you’ve likely encountered the term “surgery for dimple” and may be wondering what the procedure entails.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about surgery for dimples, from how it works to what to expect before and after the procedure.
What is Dimple Surgery?
Surgery for dimple, or dimpleplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to create permanent dimples in your cheeks. Dimples are naturally formed when there’s a small indentation in the muscle below the skin, which becomes visible when a person smiles. Dimpleplasty replicates this by creating a similar indentation through minimally invasive surgical techniques.
The procedure is relatively simple and typically performed under local anesthesia. It’s become increasingly popular in recent years, especially with the influence of celebrities and social media promoting the aesthetic appeal of dimples.
How Does Dimple Surgery Work?
During surgery for dimple, the cosmetic surgeon will make a small incision inside your cheek, ensuring that there are no visible scars on the outside. A small portion of the cheek muscle and fat is then removed, and a suture is placed inside the cheek to create the dimple. Over time, as the tissue heals, the suture dissolves, leaving a permanent indentation, or dimple.
The entire procedure usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on whether you’re getting one dimple or two. Most patients can return home the same day.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dimple Surgery?
Before undergoing any cosmetic procedure, it’s important to determine whether you’re a good candidate. Surgery for dimple is ideal for individuals who:
- Are in good health
- Have realistic expectations about the results
- Want to enhance their facial aesthetics with dimples
- Do not have significant issues with scarring or wound healing
People with chronic health conditions or poor healing ability should consult with their doctor before considering the procedure.
What to Expect Before the Procedure
Before your dimple surgery, you’ll have a consultation with your cosmetic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations. The surgeon will evaluate your facial structure, skin tone, and health history to determine if you’re a good fit for the procedure.
You’ll also be advised to avoid certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the surgery to minimize the risk of excessive bleeding or complications.
The Dimple Surgery Procedure: Step by Step
Here’s a general breakdown of the surgery for dimple process:
- Consultation: Your surgeon will discuss your goals, review your health history, and determine the optimal placement for your dimples.
- Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to numb the area, ensuring that you feel no pain during the surgery.
- Incision: A small incision is made inside the cheek where the dimple will be placed. This ensures no external scars.
- Tissue Removal: A tiny piece of the cheek muscle and fat is removed to create the dimple.
- Suturing: The surgeon places a dissolvable suture inside the cheek, pulling the skin inward to form the dimple.
- Recovery: Once the procedure is complete, you’ll be allowed to go home and start your recovery.
Recovery and Aftercare: What to Expect
The recovery process after surgery for dimple is typically quick and relatively painless. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery phase:
- Swelling and Bruising: You’ll experience some mild swelling and bruising, which is normal after any surgery. This usually subsides within a week or two.
- Soreness: Mild discomfort or soreness in the cheeks is common, but most patients find that over-the-counter pain relievers are sufficient to manage it.
- Diet: You may need to stick to soft foods for a few days after the procedure to avoid putting stress on the surgical site.
- Dimple Appearance: Initially, the dimples will be visible even when you’re not smiling, but as the tissue heals, they will only appear when you smile or move your facial muscles.
You should be able to return to work or normal activities within a day or two, but it’s important to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions closely.
Risks and Complications of Dimple Surgery
While surgery for dimple is generally considered safe, like all surgical procedures, it carries some risks. Possible complications include:
- Infection
- Scarring
- Asymmetry between the dimples
- Prolonged swelling or bruising
- Numbness in the cheeks
Choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon greatly reduces the likelihood of complications. It’s also essential to follow all post-operative care instructions to ensure a smooth recovery.
How Much Does Dimple Surgery Cost?
The cost of surgery for dimple can vary depending on the surgeon’s experience, the clinic’s location, and whether you’re getting one or both cheeks done. On average, the procedure can range from $1,500 to $3,000. Be sure to factor in the costs of consultations, post-operative care, and any medications that may be needed during recovery.
Is Dimple Surgery Permanent?
Yes, surgery for dimple is designed to create permanent results. Once the sutures dissolve, the tissue heals in a way that maintains the indentation, leaving a lasting dimple.
However, it’s important to understand that while the dimples are permanent, aging or significant weight changes may affect the appearance of your dimples over time.
FAQs About Surgery for Dimple
- Is dimple surgery painful?
Dimple surgery is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. After the surgery, mild discomfort or soreness may occur, but it can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
- How long does it take to recover from dimple surgery?
Most people recover from surgery for dimple within a week. Swelling and bruising typically subside within 5 to 7 days, and you can resume normal activities within a day or two.
- Can dimple surgery be reversed?
While dimple surgery is considered permanent, reversal is possible. However, reversing the procedure is more complicated and may not restore the cheeks to their exact pre-surgery state.
- Will my dimples look natural?
When performed by a skilled surgeon, surgery for dimple results in natural-looking dimples that appear only when you smile or move your face.
- How long do the dimples last?
Dimples created through surgery are intended to be permanent. However, the appearance of your dimples may change slightly over time due to aging or weight fluctuations.
- Is dimple surgery covered by insurance?
Since surgery for dimple is a cosmetic procedure, it is typically not covered by health insurance. Be sure to discuss costs and payment options with your surgeon beforehand.
Surgery for dimples offers an opportunity to enhance your facial features with a permanent, natural-looking aesthetic. The procedure is safe, effective, and involves minimal recovery time. If you’re considering this option, it’s important to consult with a reputable cosmetic surgeon to ensure that your expectations align with achievable results.
