Facial dimples have always sparked fascination and interest. Many people consider these small indentations an attractive and distinctive feature, capable of completely transforming the expression of a smile.
While some people are born with natural dimples, others spend their entire lives wishing they had this facial detail.
The good news? Modern aesthetic medicine offers an alternative for those who want to achieve this look through an outpatient surgical procedure called dimpleplasty.
What exactly is dimpleplasty?
Dimpleplasty, also known as dimple creation surgery, represents a cosmetic procedure that creates artificial dimples on the face. Unlike other more invasive facial plastic surgeries, this procedure can be performed in less than an hour and generally requires only local anesthesia.
The procedure has gained significant popularity in the United States over the last decade. According to data from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, minor facial cosmetic procedures increased approximately 200% between 2010 and 2020, with dimpleplasty representing a growing portion of these interventions.
How does the procedure work in practice?
During dimpleplasty, the plastic surgeon makes a small incision inside the cheek, working completely through the inside of the mouth. This means you won’t have any visible scars on your face.
The professional then removes a small portion of muscle and fatty tissue before creating a connection between the skin and the underlying muscle. This connection forms the dimple you see when you smile.
Initially, the dimple will be visible even when you’re not smiling. But don’t worry – this is completely normal. As the weeks pass and the tissue heals, the dimple will start to appear only when you smile, exactly like a natural dimple.
What types of dimples can you create?
When we think of dimples, we generally imagine those on the cheeks. However, dimpleplasty can create different types of dimples:
- Cheek dimples: These represent the most popular type and can be positioned at various points on the cheek, depending on your preference and facial anatomy. Some people prefer higher dimples, close to the eyes, while others opt for lower positions.
- Chin dimples: Also known as “chin clefts,” these vertical dimples in the center of the chin can add definition and character to the face.
- Back dimples: Although technically different, some clinics also offer procedures to create the famous “dimples of Venus” in the lower back region.
Who can get dimpleplasty?
The good news is that most healthy adults can be considered candidates for this procedure. However, some factors can influence whether you’re a good candidate:
You need to have realistic expectations about the results. Surgically created dimples may not look exactly identical to natural ones, especially in the first few months. People with fuller cheeks generally achieve more natural results, as there’s more tissue to work with.
Illusions Plastic Surgery conducts a complete evaluation during the initial consultation to determine if you’re an appropriate candidate.
How much does dimpleplasty really cost in the United States?
Let’s get straight to the point many want to know: the cost. The price of dimpleplasty in the United States varies considerably depending on several factors.
On average, you can expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000 for this procedure.
Factors that influence the cost
- Geographic location: Clinics in metropolitan areas generally charge higher prices due to the elevated cost of living. In smaller inland cities, prices tend to be more affordable.
- Surgeon’s experience: Board-certified plastic surgeons with years of experience in facial procedures typically charge higher fees. However, you’re paying for expertise and the guarantee of superior results.
- Number of dimples: Creating one dimple costs less than creating two. Some people opt for just one dimple for an asymmetric and unique look.
- Facilities used: Procedures performed in accredited surgical centers may cost more than those done in medical offices, but they offer more rigorous safety standards.
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
| Location (urban areas) | +20% to 40% |
| Surgeon’s experience | +30% to 50% |
| Two dimples vs. one | +40% to 60% |
| Surgical center vs. office | +15% to 25% |
It’s worth mentioning that many clinics, including Illusions Plastic Surgery, offer financing plans to make the procedure more accessible.
Some patients choose to combine dimpleplasty with other minor facial procedures, which can result in savings on the total cost.
What to expect during recovery?
Recovery from dimpleplasty is generally smooth and quick. Most patients return to normal activities within a few days. You’ll likely experience some swelling and mild discomfort in the first few days, but these symptoms can be managed with common pain medication.
During the first week, you’ll need to follow a liquid or soft food diet to avoid excessive cheek movements. After that, you can gradually return to normal eating. Oral hygiene becomes particularly important during this period – you’ll need to rinse your mouth with an oral antiseptic several times a day.
The sutures used are generally absorbable, so you won’t need to have them removed. They’ll dissolve on their own in approximately two weeks.
Most patients can return to work in 2-3 days, especially if they work in office environments.
What risks should you know about?
Like any surgical procedure, dimpleplasty carries some risks, although they’re relatively rare. Infection represents the most common complication, occurring in approximately 1-2% of cases according to studies published in the Journal of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Excessive bleeding can occur, especially in patients taking anticoagulant medications.
Some people report asymmetry in the created dimples, where one may appear deeper or positioned differently from the other. In rare cases, there may be damage to facial nerves, resulting in temporary numbness or muscle weakness. Inadequate scarring can lead to unsatisfactory results that require revision procedures.
Choosing an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon significantly reduces these risks. The professionals at Illusions Plastic Surgery have extensive training in facial anatomy and minimally invasive techniques, which contributes to lower complication rates.
Do created dimples last forever?
A frequent question is: “Are artificial dimples permanent?” The answer is: generally yes, but with some nuances. Dimpleplasty creates a permanent modification to your facial tissue structure. However, dimples may become less pronounced over time, especially if you gain or lose significant weight.
In the first 1-2 months, the dimples will be visible even at rest. As healing progresses, they’ll start to appear mainly when you smile or make facial expressions, mimicking natural dimples. After about 6 months, you’ll see the final result of the procedure.
A 5-year follow-up study published in 2019 showed that 87% of patients maintained visible and satisfactory dimples after this period. Patient satisfaction remained high, with 92% of participants reporting they would undergo the procedure again.
Why does choosing a qualified clinic make a difference?
You may feel tempted to look for the cheapest option available, but when it comes to your face, it’s worth investing in quality. Experienced surgeons understand complex facial anatomy and can position dimples in a way that complements your natural features.
At Illusions Plastic Surgery in West Palm Beach, board-certified surgeons perform a detailed facial analysis before recommending the ideal positioning for dimples. They consider bone structure, face shape, facial fat distribution, and your personal preferences to create harmonious results.
Established clinics also maintain rigorous sterilization and safety standards, reducing the risk of infections and complications. You’ll have access to proper follow-up care if any concerns arise during recovery.
Frequently asked questions about dimpleplasty
Dimpleplasty is usually performed through the inside of the cheek. Because of this approach, visible external scars are not typically expected. During a consultation at Illusions Plastic Surgery, this aspect is usually explained in detail based on each individual case.
In the first days after dimpleplasty, the dimple may remain visible even without smiling. Over time, this effect tends to soften, and the dimple usually appears mainly during facial expressions, such as smiling.
Yes, dimpleplasty can be performed on one side or on both sides of the face. This decision usually depends on facial symmetry and personal aesthetic preferences, which are discussed during a consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon.
The initial result of dimpleplasty is often noticeable shortly after the procedure. However, a more natural-looking result is usually observed after a few weeks, as swelling decreases and the tissues settle.
People with active oral infections, certain healing conditions, or misaligned expectations may not be good candidates for dimpleplasty. A consultation at Illusions Plastic Surgery can help determine whether the procedure would make sense for each individual situation.
