A natural dimple is the result of a small opening in a muscle in the cheek called the buccinator muscle. Although it’s a hereditary trait, it can be created with a minimally invasive surgical procedure (dimpleplasty). The cause of dimple is a defect in the facial muscle, in many cultures it is seen as a highly attractive trait.
Dimples are considered a sign of youth and beauty which accentuate the smile of the person. People born with natural facial dimples can lose them or see a reduction of depth as they get older and the skin, muscle, and physical weight changes.
In this video, Dr. Prasad performs a dimple surgery on Lisa W, who wants a more memorable smile. Before the operation, Dr. Amiya Prasad measures Lisa’s face to find the area where naturally occurring dimples would be, by measuring the corner of the eye down, then the intersecting point from the mouth which is about 3 centimeters. “There is a sweet spot where the skin allows for a fold, which makes the dimple look natural” comments Dr. Prasad
Dr. Prasad’s talent for natural and refined results ensures that your new dimples will look natural and leave others none the wiser.
If you were not born with dimples, it is not possible to get dimples that will be long lasting with methods such as facial exercise. Some people have tried to get dimples by having their cheeks pierced instead of a dimpleplasty. Unfortunately, results with piercing can be limited and variable. Many people are uncomfortable with the idea of having a dimple piercing.
Most healthy people can be candidates for dimpleplasty. During your consultation a review of your medical history and an examination will determine if you are a candidate.
Cheek dimple creation (dimpleplasty) is a procedure that can be done under local anesthesia. Prior to your procedure, Oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Prasad will mark the area with you so you are fully aware of the planned dimple placement. During the procedure, Dr. Prasad will make a small opening inside the mouth and work on the buccinator muscle inside the cheek to create a natural-looking dimple. The inside of the cheek is closed with dissolvable stitches and you’re able to resume most normal activities following the short procedure.
Since the procedure is performed inside the mouth, there is no obvious appearance of surgery from the outside. Dr. Prasad combines his technical skills, artistry and expertise for a quicker recovery so you can enjoy the compliments related to your new dimples sooner.
Dimple creation surgery is a quick, relatively painless, outpatient procedure. A dimple creation procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation (also known as “twilight”). To create dimples, the surgery is performed on the inside of the cheek and there are no scars or incisions on the outside skin.
During your consultation with Dr Prasad, he will provide you with information about the optimal placement and the degree of depth you can anticipate.
It’s very important to follow your post procedure care to insure proper recovery. Dr. Prasad and his staff will provide you with instructions. Since the oral cavity is a source of bacteria, proper care has to be maintained. An antiseptic mouthwash has to be used a couple of times a day to keep the site as germ free as possible. Suitable antibiotics will also be prescribed to help with faster healing. Dr. Prasad can also provide medications to relieve pain, if needed. Mild to moderate inflammation will remain for a few days. Over animated facial expressions should be avoided for better results during the healing phase.
While dimple creation is a long lasting procedure, it does not mean that all cosmetic dimples are completely irreversible. Dimple creation may be partially reversible.
In the reversal procedure, the tissue in the cheek may be released and the skin separated from the underlying muscle. As with all cosmetic procedures there are exceptions.
Dr. Prasad will review the risks, benefits and options before your procedure.
In certain rare cases there could be a temporary weakness of the cheek muscle after the surgery that could last for a few weeks.
The sutures dissolve and absorb in about 2 weeks and the skin softens which creates a more natural appearance. When the internal tissue heals, it connects the cheek muscle to the skin, thus creating a dimple when smiling. This period could vary from a few days to several weeks depending on the healing and the extent of tissue removed. It typically takes a few weeks for your new dimple to look natural. You will be able to eat after the surgery, but it is recommended to wait until the anesthesia wears off.
As with any surgery there are some risks. Dr. Amiya Prasad will meet with you to discuss the procedure and the risks so you can make an informed decision.
As with any surgical procedure, it’s important to stop blood thinning medications. If you have a history of high blood pressure, diabetes or any other medical conditions, you need to inform Dr. Prasad of this. It’s routine to have patients take oral antibiotics and use an antibacterial oral rinse before surgery. During your consultation, Dr. Prasad will review your medical and dental history as well as any current medications and supplements you may be taking.
Clients tell us that with Dr. Prasad’s technique, the results look natural and recovery is fast with minimal discomfort. If you have always wanted to have those dimples on your cheeks, contact Oculoplastic surgeon Dr. Amiya Prasad at his New York office at (212) 265-8877; Garden City office at (516) 742-4636 or Vienna Virginia office at (703) 356-1336 / (703) 821-2683. Dr. Prasad also performs other procedures like facelifts, eyelid ptosis surgery, upper eyelid surgery, Asian double eyelid surgery, and under eye bag surgery. Call or contact us today.