Dimpleplasty is a minimally invasive facial procedure designed to create natural-looking cheek dimples. For patients seeking a subtle yet defining enhancement, double board-certified plastic surgeon Jonathan Dang, MD approaches dimple creation with careful attention to facial balance, symmetry, and smile dynamics.
Dimpleplasty, also known as cheek dimple surgery, is a procedure that surgically creates dimples on the cheeks. The procedure works by creating a connection between the skin of the cheek and the underlying buccinator muscle, allowing a dimple to form when smiling. By carefully selecting the location and depth of the dimple, Dr. Dang can create results that appear natural and complement each patient’s facial anatomy and expressions.
Dimpleplasty, or cheek dimple surgery, offers a simple way to enhance your smile and facial dynamics. Key benefits include:
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You may be a strong candidate if you:
During your consultation, Dr. Dang will evaluate your facial structure, skin thickness, and smile mechanics to determine the most natural placement for your dimple.
Dimpleplasty can be performed in our office under local anesthesia in as little as 30 minutes.
– Jonathan Dang, MD
Dimpleplasty is typically performed as an in-office procedure under local anesthesia at Guerra Plastic Surgery Center and takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. During the consultation, Dr. Dang works with each patient to determine the ideal dimple location based on facial anatomy and personal preferences. In many patients, the dimple is positioned near the intersection of a line extending down from the outer corner of the eye and a line extending outward from the corner of the mouth, although adjustments can be made to create the most natural appearance.
Once the location is selected, the area is numbed with local anesthetic. A small incision is made inside the cheek, and a permanent suture is used to connect the dermis of the cheek skin to the underlying buccinator muscle. Dissolvable sutures are then used to close the intraoral incision. As the area heals, scar tissue forms around the suture, creating the dimple.
20 - 30 minutes
Local
Certified Outpatient Center or Specialty Hospital
Dimpleplasty can be done in the office.
Recovery after dimpleplasty is generally straightforward. Mild swelling and bruising of the cheeks may occur during the first 24 hours. There are no external bandages and no sutures that require removal. Patients should avoid overstretching the cheeks for approximately two weeks and avoid heavy lifting during the first week to minimize the risk of bleeding.
Most patients can return to work within one to two days, provided their activities are not strenuous.
Initially, the dimples often appear deeper and more noticeable than the final result. Over the first one to two weeks, they gradually soften and become more natural in appearance, typically becoming visible primarily when smiling. Because the suture used to create the dimple is permanent, results can be long-lasting, although the long-term behavior of surgically created dimples continues to be studied as dimpleplasty is a relatively newer cosmetic procedure.
Dimpleplasty requires a precise understanding of facial anatomy and expression, not just technical execution, but careful placement to ensure the result appears natural in motion. At Guerra Plastic Surgery Center, Dr. Jonathan Dang approaches each procedure with careful attention to facial balance, symmetry, and smile dynamics. Because dimple placement, depth, and shape can significantly influence the final appearance, Dr. Dang works closely with each patient to determine a design that complements their facial features and aesthetic goals. After completing his formal plastic surgery training, Dr. Dang pursued an advanced aesthetic fellowship, where he refined his skills in cosmetic facial procedures. His experience across a range of facial surgeries allows him to evaluate subtle anatomical differences and tailor each procedure accordingly to individual anatomy and preferences.
He takes the time to understand each patient’s individual goals and facial characteristics. With a strong artistic background, Dr. Dang focuses on creating results that are balanced, natural-looking, and well-integrated with the patient’s overall appearance, while maintaining a strong emphasis on safety.
Absolutely happy with my results. Friendly, helpful, really awesome team. Recommend 100%!
My experience from the moment I called for a consultation through post-op was amazing. The entire team makes you feel extremely comfortable about the decision you made. I felt safe and in good hands.
Dimpleplasty typically takes about 20–30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia.
Yes. The size, shape, and appearance of the dimple can often be customized through the suturing technique. Larger or elongated dimples may require additional sutures or tissue engagement, while a smaller pinpoint dimple typically requires less tissue involvement. Dr. Dang generally prefers not to remove cheek tissue because tissue removal cannot be reversed.
Most patients report minimal discomfort, with mild soreness for a few days after the procedure.
Recovery is usually a few days, with most patients resuming normal activities quickly.
Results are long-lasting, though the depth and appearance of the dimple may soften over time.
Yes, if necessary, the permanent suture can be removed or repositioned to modify the appearance of the dimple.
As with any surgical procedure, dimpleplasty carries potential risks. These include bleeding, injury to the salivary duct, or injury to nearby facial nerve branches. Careful surgical planning and precise suture placement help minimize these risks.
Dimples may appear more prominent initially, but typically settle into a natural appearance within a few weeks.
Scottsdale Location
Dr. Aldo Guerra’s professional memberships and awards
Servicing the Phoenix metro area, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Mesa, Tempe, Gilbert, Chandler, Glendale, Anthem, Cave Creek, Peoria, Buckeye, Avondale, and surrounding communities.
* All appointments require a credit card on file.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Aldo Guerra, MD, FACS offers one (1) free consultation for new qualified patients with a credit card on file who are interested in the following procedures: Primary (first-time) Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Tummy Tuck, Mommy Makeover, Body Lift, Thigh Lift, and Arm Lift.
Double board-certified plastic surgeon Jonathan Dang, MD offers one (1) free consultation or one (1) free virtual consultation for new qualified patients with a credit card on file who are interested in: Rhinoplasty, Facelift/Necklift, Brow Lift, Eyelid Surgery, Ear Surgery, Chin Implants, Gynecomastia, Labiaplasty, Liposuction 360, Liposuction, Tummy Tuck, Mommy Makeover, Body Lift, Thigh Lift, Arm Lift, Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Implant Exchange, Breast Revision, Breast Implant Removal, Breast Reduction, and Minimally Invasive In-Office Procedures (including Labiaplasty, Neck Liposuction, Upper Lid Blepharoplasty, Dimpleplasty, and Fat Transfer to the Face).
Dr. Dang also offers revision surgery consultations for a $100 non-refundable fee (charged at the time of scheduling) for the following procedures: revision rhinoplasty, revision facelift, revision tummy tuck, revision arm lift, revision eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), scar revision, and dog-ear removal. This $100 fee may be applied toward your surgical quote if you proceed with surgery.
Cancellation / Rescheduling Policy
A minimum of two (2) business days’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule your in-office consultation or virtual consultation. Failure to provide adequate notice or a no-show will result in a $100 fee charged to the credit card on file.
If you have already used your free consultation, a $100 non-refundable fee is required for a second consultation. This $100 fee may be applied toward your surgical quote if you proceed with surgery.
Non-Surgical Procedures
A $25 non-refundable appointment fee is required for all non-surgical procedures. Two (2) business days’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule to avoid this fee.
We do not accept insurance.
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