Dimpleplasty: For the love of dimples!

The allure of dimples goes way back, well before Shirley Temple charmed the world with hers, even starring in a movie called "Dimples." These small indentations on a person's cheeks have long been regarded as a sign of youth and beauty, and in some cultures, even as symbols of good luck.

Like other physical features and beauty trends, interest in dimples ebbs and flows, but over the past couple of years, it has been experiencing a real moment.

What's the allure of dimples? Why are some people blessed with them, while others are not? And how can you get them? We're answering these questions and more with the help of ASPS Member Surgeons.

The history of dimples

Dimples are technically a variation (some call it a "defect") in the zygomaticus major muscle, which runs from the cheek to the corners of the mouth. Yet, they're often considered charming, a sign of youth, and even a symbol of prosperity and good luck in some cultures.

Research on dimples is scant, but it's estimated that only around 20 to 30 percent of people have these cheek indentations. Not surprisingly, these coveted indentations have been in demand by the dimple-less for some time, leading to the creation of various dimple-making devices in the 1930s, which recently became trendy again on TikTok, as well as dimpleplasty – a minimally invasive procedure that can create permanent dimples.

Famous dimples: They're not always on the cheeks

Celebrities often shape beauty standards and trends, and some are well-known for their dimples. For instance, Orlando Bloom, Jennifer Garner and Harry Styles – all blessed with cheeky dimples. But not all dimples are on the cheeks; some are on the chin, also known as a cleft chin. Think Henry Cavill, Blake Lively and Lana Del Rey.

Some even have what's known as "dimples of Venus", which are dimples on the lower back.

Despite the many swoon-worthy dimples gracing the big screen, when it comes to inspiration, patients considering dimpleplasty more often look to before and after pics than celebrities. At least that's been the experience of Manish Shah, MD.

"Patients are desiring individualized outcomes, so the days of bringing celebrity inspiration pics are over in my practice," said Dr. Shah. "I see more patients bringing in before and after photos that they find on social media to showcase the kinds of outcomes they hope to obtain. Miranda Kerr is a popular aesthetic, though."

Getting dimples

More people are seeking out dimple surgery than ever before. Why?

"For the most part, I find that people want dimples to appear cuter or more smiley," said Philippe Capraro, MD. "In some cultures, people even believe that having dimples is a representation of being wise."

Dimpleplasty can create permanent dimples in just 30 minutes, without the need for general anesthesia. The procedure involves removing a bit of muscle through a tiny incision inside the cheek and then suturing the remaining muscle and skin together, leaving no visible scars.

Patients also request other types of dimpling procedures, although the technique differs from cheek dimple surgery.

"I've had patients ask for clefts to be placed in the middle of the chin," said Dr. Shah. "I create this effect with superficial micro liposculpture and occasionally resect a small section of midline mentalis muscle. I've also had requests for the lower back dimples. This is always handled with superficial micro liposculpture."

As for those viral dimple-maker devices, Dr. Capraro cautions that while they can be effective temporarily, they may not work for everyone and come with certain risks.

"For those who have thicker cheek tissue, this is not an option," said Dr. Capraro. "Outside of cheek thickness, this route does take a significant amount of time and can potentially cause necrosis (death) to underlying tissues, damage to facial nerves and weakness to the musculature."

If you're interested in enhancing your appearance with dimples, it's advisable to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon. They can explain your options and help you achieve the look you're after safely.

To find a qualified plastic surgeon for any cosmetic or reconstructive procedure, consult a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. All ASPS members are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, have completed an accredited plastic surgery training program, practice in accredited facilities and follow strict standards of safety and ethics. Find an ASPS member in your area.