Dimples are small indentations that form on the cheeks when certain muscles in the face contract. While considered an attractive facial feature by many, some people prefer to have their dimples removed for cosmetic reasons. If you’re considering dimple removal surgery, it’s important to understand the different procedures available and associated costs.
What is a dimple and what causes it?
Dimples form on the cheeks when there is a gap between the buccinator muscle and skin. When a person smiles or puckers their lips, the buccinator muscle contracts and causes the skin to pucker inwards, creating that signature dimpled look.
Genetics play a big role in dimple formation. Dimples are inherited as an autosomal dominant trait, meaning you only need one parent with the gene variant to inherit dimples. The gene variant causes the zygomaticus major muscle, which controls smiling, to connect too closely to the skin. This results in the inward puckering when smiling that creates a dimple.
Why do some people want dimple removal?
While many consider dimples an attractive facial feature, some individuals opt to have their dimples removed for personal or cosmetic reasons. Common motivations include:
- Disliking the look of dimples on their face
- Wanting a smooth, dimple-free cheek
- Finding dimples unprofessional looking
- experiene dimpling only on one cheek, desiring symmetry
- Dimples worsening with age
The choice to remove dimples is an extremely personal one. People who choose this cosmetic procedure typically feel self-conscious about their dimples and believe removal will boost their self-confidence and improve their appearance.
How are dimples removed?
There are two main procedures used for dimple removal:
Injectable fillers
Injectable fillers like hyaluronic acid (Restylane, Juvederm) or calcium hydroxyapatite (Radiesse) can be used to temporarily fill in dimples and create a smoother facial contour. The filler is injected directly into the dimple using a fine needle, plumping up the skin from beneath.
Results are immediate but not permanent. Fillers gradually break down and absorb over time, meaning dimples will reappear within 6-18 months as the filler dissipates. Repeat treatments are needed to maintain results.
Dimple excision surgery
For permanent dimple removal, surgical excision is required. This outpatient procedure is done under local anesthesia.
The surgeon makes an incision inside the mouth, on the cheek side where the dimple is located. Through this incision, the fibrous band connecting cheek muscles to skin is cut and detached. The surgeon may also remove a small amount of tissue before suturing the incision closed. This prevents the muscle from reattaching and reforming the dimple.
The procedure leaves minimal scarring since the incision is inside the mouth. Recovery takes approximately 1 week. Results are permanent in most cases.
Cost of dimple removal procedures
On average, the cost for dimple removal ranges from:
- Injectable fillers: $500 – $800 per treatment
- Dimple excision surgery: $3,000 – $5,000
Here are some factors that affect overall cost:
Location
Where you live plays a role in cost. Procedures tend to be more expensive in major metro areas compared to smaller cities.
Doctor’s fees
More experienced cosmetic surgeons or those with in-demand practices can charge higher fees. Their expertise may be worth the price.
Anesthesia fees
If using general anesthesia for dimple surgery, these medical fees will add to the total cost.
Hospital or facility fees
Having the procedure done in a hospital vs. office can result in additional facility charges.
Extent of treatment
Cost will be higher if you want both dimples treated vs just one.
Number of filler syringes
The amount of filler required will depend on dimple size and depth. More syringes equals greater cost.
Factors that influence dimple removal cost
| Factor | Impact on Cost |
|---|---|
| Geographic location | Higher in major metro areas |
| Surgeon experience | More experienced surgeons charge more |
| Anesthesia fees | General anesthesia is more expensive than local |
| Treatment extent | Treating two dimples costs more than one |
| Filler amount needed | More syringes equals higher cost |
Is dimple removal covered by insurance?
Dimple removal is considered an elective cosmetic procedure. This means it is typically not covered by health insurance plans.
The exception is if you have a medical need for dimple removal. For example, if dimples are causing recurrent infections or dental problems. Make sure to check with your insurance provider.
Otherwise, you will be responsible for covering the full cost of dimple removal out-of-pocket.
How to reduce costs of dimple removal
If you want to remove your dimples but are concerned about costs, here are some tips that can help reduce your overall expenditure:
- Compare quotes from different qualified surgeons to find the best value
- Ask if you can get a discount for paying the full amount upfront
- Join a medspa’s rewards program for exclusive promotions on treatments
- Get injectable filler treatments during a medspa’s annual Beauty Event for discounted pricing
- Opt to only treat one dimple instead of two to cut costs
- Consider financing or payment plans to spread out costs over time
- Schedule the procedure during their slower season when surgeons tend to offer promotions
What to consider when choosing a surgeon
Choosing the right surgeon is extremely important when it comes to dimple removal. Consider these tips to select a qualified, experienced doctor:
- Verify board certification in plastic surgery or dermatology
- Look at before and after photos to evaluate their aesthetic tastes and results
- Read through online reviews from previous patients
- Meet for an initial consultation to discuss your goals and options
- Ask about their specific experience with dimple removal procedures
- Make sure they operate at accredited clinics and hospitals
- Confirm what is included in the quoted price
- Check that they offer warranties in case of any complications
Taking the time to do your research will help you find a surgeon you can trust for your dimple removal.
Possible risks and complications
While considered a relatively safe procedure when performed by a qualified doctor, dimple removal carries some risks and potential side effects. These include:
- Infection at the incision site
- Adverse reactions to anesthesia
- Bleeding and swelling
- Pain or discomfort
- Numbness in the area due to nerve damage
- Asymmetry if only one dimple removed
- Skin discoloration and scarring around incision
- Reformation of dimples over time
Choosing an experienced surgeon can help minimize risks. Be sure to follow all pre and post-op instructions carefully during recovery as well.
What to expect during recovery
Here is what you can expect during the recovery process after dimple removal:
After filler injections
- Results are instant, dimples appear smoothed out
- Treated area may be red, swollen, or bruised for 2-3 days
- Avoid massaging or pressing on the area
- Use a cold compress to reduce swelling
- Sleep face up to prevent putting pressure on the cheeks
- Take over-the-counter pain medication as needed for discomfort
- Avoid strenuous activity for 24 hours
After surgical excision
- Swelling and bruising may last 1-2 weeks
- Stitches inside mouth dissolve within 7-10 days
- A liquid or soft food diet is recommended initially
- Use pain medication as prescribed by the doctor
- Avoid chewing on the surgery side for several days
- Numbness can persist for a few weeks
- No facial massage or rigorous exercise for 3 weeks
- Sleep on your back with head elevated
Make sure to schedule all required follow-up visits with your doctor and avoid bumping the area during recovery.
Conclusion
Dimple removal is an option for those who want to achieve a smooth, indentation-free cheek contour. While pricey, costs typically range from $500 – $5,000 depending on whether fillers or surgical excision is used.
It’s important to select an experienced cosmetic surgeon you trust to perform the procedure and manage expectations around the recovery process. While results are permanent with surgery, there are always risks to consider as well.
As with any cosmetic procedure, it’s essential to think carefully about your motivations and whether potential benefits of dimple removal outweigh the risks for your situation. Book a consultation to discuss your options in more detail.