Facial dimples are natural indentations in the skin, most often seen on the cheeks, but sometimes appearing on the chin. These distinctive features result from specific anatomical variations beneath the skin’s surface. This article explores the various methods available for their reduction or removal, providing insights into both non-surgical and surgical approaches.
Understanding Facial Dimples
Facial dimples typically arise from a unique anatomical structure involving the buccinator muscle in the cheek. A small defect or a fibrous band can tether the overlying skin. The skin becomes pulled inward when facial muscles contract during expressions, such as smiling, creating the characteristic indentation. This muscular variation is a natural anatomical feature and is often genetically inherited.
These fibrous attachments mean dimples are usually permanent features, visible whenever the associated facial muscle contracts. Their depth and prominence can vary significantly among individuals, depending on the extent of the muscle tethering. They are present from birth or early childhood and generally persist throughout an individual’s life.
Non-Surgical Approaches to Dimple Reduction
Non-surgical methods offer limited effectiveness for reducing anatomically caused facial dimples. These approaches do not address the underlying muscular attachment responsible for the indentation. For minor indentations or those not caused by a direct muscle tether, temporary fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, may be considered. However, their effect on a true dimple is temporary or negligible, as they cannot release the fixed skin attachment.
Topical creams, facial exercises, or other non-invasive home remedies are not effective in removing or significantly reducing true facial dimples. Individuals seeking a more noticeable or lasting change for anatomically-formed dimples will find these options insufficient.
Surgical Options for Dimple Removal
Surgical interventions offer the most direct and lasting solutions for reducing or eliminating facial dimples. These procedures target the anatomical structures creating the dimple.
Dimpleplasty Reversal
This common surgical approach releases the fibrous attachment pulling the skin inward. A small incision is made inside the mouth, avoiding external scarring. The surgeon then carefully releases the tethering between the skin and the underlying buccinator muscle, allowing the skin to lie flat.
Fat Grafting or Permanent Fillers
Another surgical option uses fat grafting or permanent fillers to address the indentation. Fat grafting involves harvesting a small amount of fat from another area of the patient’s body, such as the abdomen or thigh. This harvested fat is then injected into the dimpled area to fill the depression. Similarly, certain permanent dermal fillers can be injected to achieve a similar filling effect, though fat grafting uses the body’s own tissue. Both fat grafting and permanent filler injections work by adding volume beneath the skin, effectively pushing the indented area outward.
While dimpleplasty reversal directly addresses the cause by releasing the tether, fat grafting and permanent fillers work by adding volume to camouflage the indentation. The choice between these methods depends on the specific characteristics of the dimple and the patient’s desired outcome. Both procedures are typically performed under local anesthesia in an outpatient setting.
What to Consider Before Dimple Removal
Before pursuing any dimple removal procedure, consulting with a qualified medical professional is important. Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist with experience in facial cosmetic procedures. A thorough consultation allows the surgeon to assess the specific characteristics of your dimples and discuss the most appropriate treatment plan. This initial meeting also provides an opportunity to review the surgeon’s credentials, examine before-and-after photos, and read patient reviews to ensure confidence in their expertise.
Understanding the potential outcomes is an important step in the decision-making process. While surgical interventions aim to reduce or eliminate dimples, results can vary, and a perfectly smooth contour may not always be achieved. Some subtle indentation might remain, or the skin may not appear completely flat in the treated area. Patients should also be prepared for a recovery period that typically includes swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area.
The recovery process involves adhering to post-operative instructions, such as dietary modifications for intraoral incisions, and avoiding strenuous activities. Most individuals can return to their normal activities within a week or two, though residual swelling may persist for several weeks. Costs for dimple removal procedures vary widely depending on the chosen method, the surgeon’s fees, and geographic location. Surgical results for dimple removal are long-lasting, providing a permanent alteration to the facial contour.