Dimple Creation
A minor surgical procedure performed under local anaesthesia to create a cheek dimple that appears when you smile.
What is dimple creation surgery?
Dimples are small indentations that appear in the cheeks when smiling, naturally caused by a connection between the skin and the muscle beneath it. Some people would like to have them to add a distinctive touch to their smile, and this is where dimple creation surgery, medically known as dimpleplasty, comes in. It is a minor procedure that usually does not require an overnight stay or general anaesthesia.
The procedure is usually done under local anaesthesia. The doctor marks the dimple position with the patient smiling, then makes a small incision inside the mouth and passes a stitch that links the deep layer of the cheek skin to the muscle beneath it, creating an indentation that appears when smiling. There is no incision on the outer skin of the face, and the internal stitches usually dissolve over time.
In the first weeks the dimple may be visible even at rest, then becomes more apparent when smiling as the tissues settle. The depth of the dimple and how long it lasts vary from person to person depending on cheek thickness and tissue characteristics, so the doctor assesses each case individually beforehand and explains realistically what to expect, including the possibility that the dimple may fade over time.
Thinking about adding a dimple to your smile?
Book a consultation so the doctor can assess your face and cheek thickness, agree with you on the right dimple position and explain what to expect.
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Those wanting a smile dimple
People who would like one or two dimples in harmony with their features.
One natural dimple
People with a natural dimple on one side who want a matching one on the other.
Good health and a healthy mouth
Adults without mouth infections or uncontrolled medical conditions.
Realistic expectations
Those who understand that the dimple’s shape, depth and how long it stays visible vary from person to person.
Who it does not suit
It is usually not advised for people with active mouth or gum infections, or smokers unable to stop temporarily, and the result may be less visible in very full cheeks.
Dimple creation steps
Consultation and planning
The doctor examines the face and marks the dimple position with the patient smiling, discussing the number and expected shape.
Preparation
Good oral hygiene, and stopping smoking and certain blood-thinning medicines beforehand as the doctor instructs.
The procedure
After local anaesthesia the doctor makes a small incision inside the mouth and places a stitch linking the skin to the muscle at the marked spot.
Aftercare
Mouthwash as instructed, a soft diet for a few days, avoiding pressure on the cheek and attending the follow-up visit.
Recovery stages after dimple creation
Swelling and mild discomfort inside the cheek; most people return to daily activities quickly.
Swelling eases gradually, and the dimple may be visible at rest, not only when smiling.
The dimple begins to settle, becoming clearer when smiling and less visible at rest.
The final shape settles; in some people the dimple may soften over time, and results vary from person to person.
Possible risks and complications
Dimple creation is a relatively minor procedure, but it is surgical and carries risks worth knowing before deciding.
- Minor bleeding, swelling or bruising
- Infection at the incision inside the mouth
- A reaction to the local anaesthetic
- Asymmetry between the two dimples in shape or position
- The dimple fading or disappearing over time, or remaining visible at rest longer than expected
- Rarely, injury to the salivary gland duct or a nearby nerve branch
- The need for a corrective procedure in some cases
Frequently asked questions about dimple creation
Is the dimple visible right after the procedure?
Will the dimple last for life?
Is there an incision on the face?
Is the procedure painful?
Can the dimple be reversed if I do not like it?
Related services
Plan your dimple with the doctor
The doctor assesses each case individually to judge whether the procedure suits your face, and helps you choose a position that looks in harmony with your smile.