A smile can change how people see you and cheek dimples often make that smile even more charming. Some people are naturally born with dimples, while others dream of having them. Thanks to modern cosmetic surgery, it’s now possible to create dimples permanently through a simple procedure known as cheek dimple surgery or dimpleplasty.
If you’ve ever wondered what this surgery involves, how much it costs, and what to expect before and after, this complete guide will explain everything clearly and simply.
What Is Cheek Dimple Surgery?
Cheek dimple surgery, also called dimpleplasty, is a cosmetic procedure that creates artificial dimples on your cheeks. It’s one of the most popular minor facial surgeries because it enhances your smile without major changes to your appearance.
During this procedure, a surgeon makes a small incision inside your mouth and ties a suture that connects the skin to your cheek muscle. This forms a natural-looking indentation when you smile just like real dimples.
The surgery is safe, quick, and usually takes only about 30 to 60 minutes. It’s done under local anesthesia, meaning you’ll be awake but won’t feel pain during the process.
Before Surgery: Things You Should Know
Before getting cheek dimple surgery, it’s important to understand what happens and how to prepare. Here are a few simple but important steps you should follow:
- Consult a certified cosmetic surgeon – Always choose an experienced and qualified doctor who has done dimple surgery before.
- Discuss your expectations – Everyone’s facial structure is different. The surgeon will help decide the perfect location and depth for your dimples.
- Medical check-up – Make sure you’re healthy and don’t have any ongoing skin or mouth infections.
- Avoid smoking or alcohol – This helps reduce swelling and speed up healing after surgery.
Preparation is simple, but it helps ensure that your results look natural and recovery stays smooth.
After Surgery: What to Expect
After the surgery, your cheeks may feel slightly swollen or sore, but this usually goes away within a few days. Here’s what you can expect during the healing process:
- The dimple may appear visible even when not smiling for the first few weeks.
- As the tissue heals, the dimple starts appearing only when you smile, giving a natural look.
- You might experience mild swelling or bruising, which fades in a week.
Your surgeon will give you Health Care Tips for quick recovery, such as:
- Rinse your mouth with a gentle antiseptic after meals.
- Eat soft foods for the first few days.
- Avoid pressing or touching your cheeks unnecessarily.
- Stay hydrated and maintain good oral hygiene.
With proper care, most people heal completely within two weeks.
How the Surgery Is Performed
The procedure is quite straightforward and painless. Here’s how it usually goes step-by-step:
- Local anesthesia is applied to numb the area inside your cheeks.
- The surgeon makes a tiny incision inside your mouth (so no external scar).
- A small tissue piece is removed to create space.
- A stitch is placed between the inner skin and muscle to form the dimple.
Once the stitch is tightened, it creates a small indentation that looks just like a natural dimple. You can go home immediately after the surgery and continue your normal activities the next day.
Before and After Cheek Dimple Surgery Results
The transformation after cheek dimple surgery is subtle but beautiful. Before surgery, your cheeks appear smooth, and after surgery, you’ll notice small dimples that show naturally when you smile.
Before:
- No dimples on cheeks
- Regular facial contour
- Natural smile without indentations
After:
- Natural, even dimples appear while smiling
- Enhanced facial symmetry
- A more cheerful and expressive smile
Photos taken before and after surgery often show how dimples add charm without drastically changing facial features. Most people feel happier and more confident with their new look.
Is Cheek Dimple Surgery Safe?
Yes, cheek dimple surgery is considered safe when performed by a certified cosmetic surgeon. It’s a minor procedure with minimal risks. However, like all surgeries, it carries small chances of:
- Temporary swelling or bruising
- Minor infection (if not cared for properly)
- Slight unevenness (which is rare and fixable)
Following your doctor’s aftercare instructions minimizes these risks and helps ensure smooth healing.
How Long Do the Results Last?
The dimples created through dimple surgery are long-lasting and often permanent. Initially, the dimples might look deeper, but they gradually soften as your cheeks heal. Within a few weeks, they begin to appear naturally when you smile just like genetic dimples.
Once healed, they usually stay for many years without any further treatment needed.
Who Can Get Dimple Surgery?
You can consider cheek dimple surgery if you:
- Are in good general health
- Have no ongoing oral or skin infections
- Want a permanent enhancement for your smile
- Have realistic expectations about results
It’s suitable for both men and women and works well for most face shapes. Your surgeon will help choose the best position for your dimples to ensure they look natural and symmetrical.
Cost of Cheek Dimple Surgery
The cost of cheek dimple surgery can vary based on your country, surgeon’s experience, and clinic location. On average:
- In the United States: $800 to $2,500
- In the UK or Europe: £600 to £1,800
- In Asia or the Middle East: $500 to $1,500
Always remember that cheaper isn’t better when it comes to cosmetic surgery. Choose a skilled professional who ensures both safety and natural-looking results.
Cheek Dimple Surgery Side Effects
While the surgery is generally safe, you should be aware of possible mild side effects such as:
- Temporary numbness: May occur around the cheeks but goes away with time.
- Swelling and redness: Common for a few days post-surgery.
- Asymmetry: One dimple may appear deeper than the other in some cases.
- Infection: Rare but can happen if oral hygiene isn’t maintained properly.
Your doctor will usually prescribe antibiotics and mouthwash to prevent any complications.
How to Take Care After Surgery
Proper care after surgery ensures long-term success and faster recovery. Follow these steps carefully:
- Eat soft, cool foods for 2 to 3 days.
- Avoid spicy or hot meals.
- Keep your mouth clean with saline or prescribed mouthwash.
- Don’t play with the sutures using your tongue.
- Avoid heavy exercise for a week.
Good care not only helps the stitches heal faster but also keeps your smile looking its best.
Final Thoughts
Cheek dimple surgery is a simple, safe, and effective way to get the smile you’ve always admired. It’s quick, affordable, and gives long-lasting results that can truly enhance your natural beauty.
Whether you’re doing it for confidence, charm, or just because you love how dimples look, it’s a personal choice that can bring out your best features.
Just remember consult a trusted surgeon, understand the procedure fully, and follow all recovery steps carefully. Soon, you’ll be smiling with confidence, showing off your new, naturally beautiful dimples.