Dimple Creation Procedure

What Are Dimples and Why Are They Created Surgically?

Dimples are small indentations on the cheeks that typically appear when a person smiles. They occur naturally in some individuals due to a variation in the cheek muscles, particularly the buccinator muscle.

While some people are born with dimples, others may choose to create dimples surgically through a procedure known as dimple creation surgery or dimpleplasty. This is an elective cosmetic procedure, meaning it is performed for aesthetic reasons rather than medical necessity.

Initial Consultation and Assessment

Before undergoing dimple creation, a face-to-face consultation with a qualified practitioner is required. During this visit:

Your medical history will be reviewed, including any pre-existing conditions, current medications, and allergies.
A physical examination of the cheeks will be performed, both inside and outside, to determine the most suitable placement for the dimples.
The location, size, and depth of the dimples will be discussed based on your preferences and facial anatomy.
You may be advised to stop certain medications (such as blood thinners) before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding.
Under Medical Board of Australia guidelines, there is a mandatory 7-day cooling-off period after your consultation before surgery can take place.
If you are under 18 years of age, an additional psychological assessment is required to determine suitability.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Local anaesthesia is used to numb the area inside the cheeks, so you will remain awake but comfortable during the procedure.
The procedure is performed entirely inside the mouth, with no external cuts or visible scars.
A small incision is made on the inner lining of the cheek.
A small amount of tissue, including cheek muscle and fat, may be carefully removed.
Dissolvable sutures are placed to bring the tissue together, creating a natural inward pull that forms the dimple.
The entire procedure typically takes 20–30 minutes, and patients usually go home the same day.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery will vary depending on your age, general health, and post-operative care.

Mild swelling or bruising may occur and typically settles within a few days.
Pain-relieving medication, antibiotics, and antiseptic mouth rinses may be prescribed to reduce discomfort and prevent infection.
Soft foods are recommended for the first few days, while hard or spicy foods should be avoided to minimise irritation.
Most people can resume normal activities within 24 hours, but strenuous exercise should be avoided until cleared by your practitioner.
The dimples may look deeper initially and will gradually soften over 2–3 months.

Potential Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. These include but are not limited to:

Bleeding – minimised by avoiding certain medications before surgery.
Infection – antibiotics are prescribed to reduce this risk.
Temporary numbness or nerve injury, which may require additional care.
Asymmetry between the dimples, which may require further procedures.
Unsatisfactory cosmetic result, as aesthetic outcomes cannot be guaranteed.

Your practitioner will discuss these risks during the consultation so you can make an informed decision.

Important Considerations

Dimple creation is not medically necessary and is performed solely for aesthetic purposes.
Results vary between individuals, and specific cosmetic outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
A thorough consultation is essential to understand the benefits, risks, and limitations of the procedure before making a decision.