Facial dimples, or cheek dimples, where an indentation appears in the cheeks when you smile, are generally considered to be an attractive feature that adds character to the face.
For evidence of the heart-melting effect dimples can have, look no further than celebrities like Cheryl Cole and Harry Styles!
Dimples are technically the result of a facial defect caused by a shortened cheek muscle which contracts and pulls the skin inwards. They are thought to be genetic but can also form as a result of excess fat on the face, in which case they fade after weight loss. They tend to vary in size, positioning and depth. You can also get chin dimples, known as cleft chins, which are perceived as a predominantly masculine feature.
Cheek dimples are often associated with innocence, perhaps because they are more common in children. The appeal of dimples seems to be worldwide too and they are particularly popular in Asian countries where they are thought to be a sign of good fortune.
Nowadays, if you weren’t born with dimples, you can have them created using a surgical procedure known as Dimpleplasty/Dimple Surgery. The procedure is particularly popular in certain countries like India but it is becoming more popular in the UK too.
How dimple surgery is performed
Dimple surgery is a relatively simple procedure that can be performed in about 30 minutes, under local anaesthetic, so the patient can go home on the same day.
The surgery typically involves a small cut on the inside of the cheek to prevent scarring before a section of the skin is pulled inwards. You’ll experience a small degree of swelling and bruising afterwards but the area should heal after about a week to ten days. To prevent an infection, it is important to use an antiseptic mouthwash while the area heals.
The dimples typically take about four weeks to fully appear. Their exact appearance can’t be predicted with complete accuracy but your surgeon will be able to give you some indication of how they may look.
Before your cheek dimple surgery
Before having your surgery, it is important to give it proper consideration and only have it performed by a trained surgeon to help ensure it goes smoothly. This will minimise the risk of any unsatisfactory outcomes, such as dimples being too deep or disappearing altogether, or an infection developing. The procedure is irreversible, although dermal fillers can be used to correct unwanted effects. Most surgically created dimples will have a permanent appearance but should deepen with animation (smiling). Before booking your appointment it is advisable to:
Consider why you want the procedure and how long you have wanted it for.
- Do your research by reading reviews about your surgeon and clinic.
- Check your surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council.
- Check your surgeon is the member of a specialist association like the British Association of Cosmetic Doctors or British Association or Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons.
- Look up the clinic you’re considering using on the website of the Care Quality Commission (CQC), an independent regulator where you can find the latest independent survey into patient satisfaction.
- Make sure you have a consultation with the surgeon you are considering using beforehand. This will help to make sure you are comfortable with the procedure and fully understand what it will involve and any – – potential side effects.
- Consider how much the procedure and any potential aftercare may cost.
At Zenith Cosmetic Clinics, your surgery will be performed by a specialist Oral and Maxillofacial surgeon. Find out more about dimple creation surgery at Zenith Cosmetic Clinics.