Dimple Creation Surgery: Enhance Your Facial Features and Boost Your Confidence
I. Introduction
Have you ever found yourself admiring the charming dimples on someone else’s face? Dimples are widely considered an attractive facial feature, adding a youthful appeal and a sense of approachability to a person’s face.
But what if you were not blessed with natural dimples? What if you could create them? That’s where dimple creation surgery comes in!
As a plastic surgeon, I’ve seen how this minimally invasive cosmetic procedure can boost a person’s self-esteem and confidence and give them the dimples they’ve always wanted.
In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about dimple creation surgery, from the procedure itself to the risks and benefits, eligibility, cost, recovery, and more. So, let’s dive in and learn how Dimple Creation Surgery can help you achieve your dream smile!
Definition of dimple creation surgery
Dimple creation surgery is a cosmetic surgical procedure that creates dimples on the cheeks or chin that appear natural. The procedure is done under local anaesthesia, and a tiny bit of tissue is taken from the inner surface of the cheek or chin to create the dimple. Sutures are used to close the wound, and the patient can usually resume their regular routine after a week.
What is a cheek dimple?
A cheek dimple is a small indentation or crease that appears when a person smiles.
It is a type of defect where a part of the skin becomes abnormally tethered to the smile muscle, i.e., the zygomaticus major muscle, which is present on both sides of the face close to the mouth. As the muscle contracts, it pulls the skin inward and forms a dimple.
Since the presence of these indentations is genetically determined, not everyone has cheek dimples.
The position of cheek dimples is not fixed and may vary in different individuals. Ideally, it is present on the smile line, which is an imaginary line along which the corners of your mouth move when you smile.
and they are in line with a vertical line drawn from the corner of the eyes.
Why should you opt for dimple creation surgery?
If you want to improve your facial features and make your face look more charming and youthful, dimple creation surgery might be the right choice for you. Here are some of the reasons why you should opt for this procedure:
- Enhanced facial appearance: Dimples are widely considered an attractive facial feature that can enhance your overall facial appearance. With dimple creation surgery, you can achieve natural-looking dimples that complement your face and create a more youthful and appealing look.
- Boosted self-confidence: Dimples are often associated with positive qualities such as approachability, warmth, and friendliness. By adding dimples to your face, you may feel more confident and approachable, which can have a positive impact on your personal and professional lives.
- Minimally invasive procedure: Dimple Creation Surgery is a minimally invasive surgery with a short recovery time. The procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, and patients can usually return to their normal activities within a week.
- Customizable results: Dimple creation surgery is a customizable procedure, meaning that you can work with your plastic surgeon to achieve the specific look you desire. Your surgeon can create dimples of varying shapes, sizes, and locations on your cheeks or chin, depending on your preferences.
- Long-lasting results: The results of dimple creation surgery are long-lasting, with many patients reporting that their dimples look natural and permanent. This means that you can enjoy your new dimples for years to come, enhancing your facial appearance and boosting your self-confidence.
- Slimmer Face: Dimples can create the illusion of a slimmer face by adding definition to the cheeks and drawing attention away from other areas. When a person smiles, the dimples create a natural contour on the cheeks, giving the appearance of a more chiselled and angular face. This can be especially beneficial for those with fuller cheeks, as the dimples can help to create a more defined jawline and cheekbones.
Who is a good candidate for dimple creation surgery?
Dimple creation surgery is a relatively simple procedure, but not everyone is a good candidate for the surgery. The following are some characteristics of a good candidate for dimple creation surgery:
- Good overall health: A good candidate for dimple creation surgery should be in good overall health and free from any medical conditions that could interfere with the surgery or healing process.
- Good skin quality: Candidates with good skin quality are more likely to achieve the desired results. Candidates with thin or sensitive skin may not be suitable for the procedure.
- Realistic expectations: A good candidate for dimple creation surgery should have realistic expectations about the procedure’s results. While dimple creation surgery can create attractive dimples on the cheeks, the results may not be exactly what the patient envisioned.
- Non-smoker: Smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications. Candidates should be non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after the surgery.
- Fully developed facial features: Candidates should have fully developed facial features, because the placement of the dimples can be affected by changes that happen during growth and development.
- Positive outlook: A good candidate for dimple creation surgery should have a positive outlook and a healthy attitude towards the procedure and its outcome.
II. Procedure
Types of dimple creation surgery
Dimpleplasty, which is another name for surgery to make dimples on the cheeks, is a cosmetic procedure that involves making small depressions or indentations on the cheeks. There are several types of cheek dimple creation surgery, each with its own unique method and approach.
- Surgical Dimple Creation:
This is the most common type of dimple creation surgery, which involves making a small incision on the inside of the cheek, where the dimple is to be created. A small amount of tissue is removed or reshaped to create the indentation or depression that mimics a natural dimple. The incision is then closed with dissolvable stitches, and the dimples are visible immediately after the procedure.
- Stitch Technique:
This type of dimple creation surgery involves passing a suture through the cheek’s muscle and skin to create a dimple effect. The suture is then tied, and a knot is formed to create the indentation. This technique is less invasive than surgical dimple creation, and the patient can resume normal activities within a day or two.
- Punch Technique:
The punch technique involves using a circular punch tool to create a hole or depression on the cheek’s skin, where the dimple is to be formed. Then, sutures are used to hold the underlying tissue to the skin, making a permanent dimple. This method is more invasive than stitching, and the patient may need more time off to fully heal.
Pre-operative care and preparations
Dimple creation surgery, also known as dimpleplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that creates small indentations on the cheeks or chin. Before undergoing the surgery, it is essential to prepare yourself physically and mentally for the procedure. Proper pre-operative care and preparation can help ensure a successful surgery and speedy recovery.
Here are some important steps to take before dimple creation surgery to take care of yourself and get ready:
- Consultation with a qualified surgeon: Set up a meeting with a board-certified plastic surgeon who specialises in dimple-making surgery. During the consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your overall health, discuss your goals and expectations, and explain the procedure’s risks and benefits. It is essential to ask any questions you may have to ensure you are comfortable with the procedure.
- Medical evaluation: Your surgeon will perform a medical evaluation to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. You may need to undergo blood tests, X-rays, and other diagnostic tests to ensure that you are healthy enough to undergo surgery.
- Stop smoking: Smoking can affect the healing process and increase the risk of complications during surgery. So, if you smoke, it is essential to stop smoking at least four weeks before the surgery.
- Avoid certain medications: Some medications can increase the risk of bleeding and interfere with the anaesthesia. It is essential to inform your surgeon of any medications you are currently taking and follow their instructions regarding which medications to stop taking before the procedure.
- Arrange transportation: Dimple creation surgery is usually performed under local anaesthesia, which means you will be awake but numb during the procedure. However, you might not be able to drive home after the surgery, so it is essential to arrange transportation beforehand.
- Arrange for someone to accompany you: It is advisable to have a friend or family member accompany you to the surgery centre and stay with you for the first 24 hours after the surgery.
- Avoid food and drink: You will be asked to avoid eating or drinking anything for a few hours before the surgery to avoid nausea and vomiting during the procedure.
- Wear comfortable clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing that is easy to put on and take off, and avoid wearing jewellery or makeup on the day of the surgery.
Proper pre-operative care and preparation are essential for a successful dimple creation surgery. Follow your surgeon’s instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to ask any questions you may have to ensure that you are comfortable with the procedure. With proper preparation and care, you can achieve the dimples you desire and have a speedy recovery.
Anaesthesia options for the Dimple Creation Procedure
During the surgery, anaesthesia is used to ensure the patient’s comfort and safety. There are various anaesthesia options available for dimple creation surgery, including local anaesthesia, sedation, and general anaesthesia.
Local Anesthesia:
Local anaesthesia is the most common option for dimple creation surgery. It involves injecting a numbing agent into the area around the cheeks or chin where the dimples will be created. The numbing agent blocks the nerves in the area, preventing the patient from feeling any pain or discomfort during the surgery. Local anaesthesia is usually administered as an outpatient procedure, meaning the patient can go home the same day.
Sedation:
With sedation anaesthesia, the patient is given drugs that help him or her relax and feel sleepy during the surgery. It is often used with local anaesthesia to make sure the patient is comfortable during the procedure. Sedation levels can range from mild to moderate, depending on the patient’s specific needs. The medication is usually administered intravenously, and the patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few hours after the procedure to recover.
General Anesthesia:
General anaesthesia involves putting the patient into a deep sleep during the surgery. It is usually reserved for more complicated procedures or patients who are highly anxious or sensitive to pain. An anesthesiologist closely monitors the patient’s vital signs while they are under general anaesthesia, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels. The patient may need to stay in the hospital for a few hours or overnight after the procedure to recover fully.
The choice of anaesthesia depends on several factors, including the patient’s medical history, the extent of the procedure, and the patient’s preferences.
Overview of the Dimple Creation Surgery
- Marking the Dimple Site: The first step is to mark the site where the dimples are to be created using a surgical pen or marker. The position of the dimples is determined based on your facial anatomy and desired outcome. I ask you to sit in front of a mirror and suck your cheeks inward to mark the lowest point of indentation. Then I ask you to smile and transpose this point to the smile vector, and finally, I draw an imaginary line from the outer edge of the eye to intersect with the smile vector. This is the final position of the dimple.
- Anaesthesia: Dimple creation surgery can be performed under local or general anaesthesia, depending on your preferences. Most individuals prefer to get it done under local anaesthesia. You lie comfortably on the operating table.
- Incision: After the cheek is numb and you are comfortable, a small incision is made in the inner cheek, in the area where the dimple is to be created. The incision is typically made using a scalpel or a surgical punch.
- Dimple creation: Then the muscles are separated from the skin as well as the mucosa and sutured together to create an indentation in the skin. An absorbable suture is used, which dissolves over time.
- Closing the incision: After creating the dimples, the incision is closed with absorbable sutures. The incision is typically small and does not require any special care or attention after the procedure.
Post-operative care
It is important to take good care of yourself after the surgery to ensure proper healing and minimise complications. Here are some post-operative care instructions for patients undergoing dimple creation surgery:
- Rest and recovery: After the procedure, you will need to rest and recover for a few days. This means avoiding any strenuous activities, lifting heavy objects, or bending over. Try to take it easy and avoid any activities that could cause excessive strain on your face.
- Ice therapy or cold compress: To help reduce swelling and discomfort, you should apply ice to your cheeks for the first few days after surgery. Use a cold compress or wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to your cheeks for 10 minutes at a time, several times a day. The technique for applying an ice pack is simple. Place the ice pack over one cheek and count to 10, then remove it and apply it on the other side. Alternate between the two cheeks for at least 10 minutes.
- Pain management: You will be prescribed pain medication to help manage your symptoms. Be sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and avoid taking any other medications without first consulting with your surgeon.
- Diet: You should avoid hard, crunchy, or chewy foods for the first few days after surgery to prevent any damage to your incision sites. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods like soup, yoghurt, and smoothies.
- Oral hygiene: Keeping your mouth clean is important after dimple creation surgery. Gently brush your teeth and tongue with a soft toothbrush and frequently gargle with a chlorhexidine-containing solution, especially after eating something.
- Follow-up appointments: Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and ensure that your incisions are healing properly. Be sure to attend all of your appointments and follow any additional instructions your surgeon provides.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Smoking and drinking alcohol can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.
By following these post-operative care instructions, you can help ensure a smooth and successful recovery after dimple creation surgery. If you experience any unusual symptoms or complications, be sure to contact your surgeon right away.
III. Results and Risks
Expected results
The expected results of a dimpleplasty depend on the person’s body, the method used by the surgeon, and the way the body heals.
Most of the time, dimples made by dimpleplasty are permanent, but they may fade a little bit over time. The initial swelling and bruising after the procedure usually subside within a few days to a week, and you are typically advised to avoid eating hard or crunchy foods for several days to allow the dimples to heal properly.
You will be able to return to work or your normal daily activities within a few days to a week after dimpleplasty. Pain and discomfort are usually mild and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications.
Risks of dimple creation surgery
Even though dimpleplasty is usually thought to be a safe procedure, there are some risks and things that could go wrong. Here are some of the risks of dimple creation surgery:
- Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, and dimple creation surgery is no exception. If the surgical site becomes infected, it can lead to pain, swelling, and fever. Infections are an emergency, and you will need to contact your surgeon urgently.
- Scarring: Dimple creation surgery involves making incisions in the mucosa and suturing it to the undersurface of the cheek skin. Sometimes, this may interfere with the blood supply of the skin and cause necrosis and scarring. While the scars may be small, they may still be visible and may not fade completely.
- Asymmetry: There is a risk that the dimples may not be symmetrical, which can result in an unnatural appearance.
- Nerve damage: The nerves in the cheek area are complex and can be easily damaged during surgery. If this happens, it can lead to numbness or other sensory changes in the affected area.
- Bleeding: Dimple creation surgery involves making incisions in the skin, which can result in bleeding. While this is usually minimal and can be controlled during the procedure, excessive bleeding can be a concern.
- Dissatisfaction with results: There is a risk that the results of the surgery may not meet the patient’s expectations or that the dimples may not look natural.
Before you decide to get dimple creation surgery, you should talk to a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon about these risks.
