What It Is
Dimple surgery creates a small indentation in the cheek that becomes more visible with facial movement such as smiling. The result comes from an internal stitch that anchors the cheek skin to deeper tissues, creating a controlled tether point.
Dimpleplasty is usually performed on the inner cheek, so there is typically no external incision. Exact technique, placement and expected appearance vary by anatomy and should be planned with a qualified clinician.
Why Patients Consider It
People choose cheek dimple creation for aesthetic reasons and personal preference. Goals vary and should be discussed during consultation.
- Subtle facial detail: Adds a dimple effect that may be visible at rest or mainly with smiling, depending on technique.
- Small procedure footprint: Typically an outpatient procedure with limited disruption compared with larger facial surgeries.
- Custom placement: Location and depth are planned to suit facial proportions and smile dynamics.
Who It May Suit
Dimple creation surgery may be considered by adults who want a realistic, natural looking change and can follow aftercare during travel. Suitability depends on cheek anatomy, skin quality, oral health and overall medical history.
- Good general health: Stable health and no uncontrolled medical conditions.
- Oral and dental considerations: Healthy gums and no active oral infections are typically preferred.
- Travel readiness: Ability to stay locally for early checks and manage swelling and hygiene while abroad.
- Specialist confirmation: Only an experienced clinician can confirm if dimpleplasty is appropriate and where a dimple can be safely created.
Technique Options
Approaches are usually defined by whether one or both cheeks are treated and the planned dimple location. Your clinician will assess facial symmetry, smile dynamics and tissue thickness to plan placement.
Unilateral Dimpleplasty
Creates a dimple on one cheek. Planning focuses on balancing overall facial symmetry and choosing a placement that looks intentional with your natural expressions.
Bilateral Dimpleplasty
Creates dimples on both cheeks. Placement is mapped to match smile movement on each side, acknowledging that natural facial asymmetry is common.
Cheek Dimpleplasty
Targets the classic cheek dimple area, usually planned along the smile line. Depth and visibility are adjusted by technique, tissue characteristics and healing response.
How It Is Done
Exact steps vary by surgeon and planned dimple location. Dimple surgery is usually performed through the inside of the cheek.
Consultation And Planning
The clinician reviews goals, examines facial movement and marks the planned dimple site. Photos may be used to help plan symmetry and placement.
Creating The Dimple
A small internal access is made inside the cheek and a stitch is placed to create an attachment point. This controlled tether forms the dimple effect as the area heals.
Immediate Check
The team checks the bite, cheek movement and early appearance. You receive instructions on oral hygiene, diet texture and follow up timing.
Anesthesia And Comfort
Dimpleplasty is commonly done with local anesthesia, sometimes with light sedation depending on patient preference, clinic protocol and medical history. Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and often feels like inner cheek soreness rather than skin pain.
Your clinician will explain the planned anesthesia approach, what you may feel during the procedure and how pain control is typically managed after.
Preparing To Travel
Preparation for cheek dimple creation focuses on medical safety, oral hygiene and travel logistics. Follow your clinician’s instructions, especially if you take regular medications.
Medical And Medication Review
- Share your full medical history, allergies and current medications or supplements.
- Ask whether you should pause any blood thinning medicines or supplements, but do not stop prescribed medication without medical advice.
- Tell the clinic about prior facial procedures or oral surgery.
Oral Hygiene Planning
- Plan for gentle oral care after dimple surgery, including any recommended mouth rinse.
- Avoid scheduling dental work immediately before the procedure unless your clinician advises it.
Travel Logistics
- Schedule arrival early enough for an in person assessment if required.
- Plan a local stay for early follow ups and keep your itinerary flexible in case swelling lasts longer than expected.
- Arrange a safe way back to your accommodation on procedure day, especially if sedation is used.
Typical Itinerary
Timelines vary by clinic and individual healing. International patients should plan time for a check before flying home and for remote follow up after return.
Day 1 Arrival And Assessment
Clinic review, final planning and consent. If photos and markings are needed, they are typically done during this visit.
Procedure Day
Dimpleplasty is performed, followed by a short observation period. You receive aftercare instructions focused on oral hygiene, diet texture and swelling care.
Early Follow Up
A check within a few days may be recommended to assess swelling, comfort and early dimple position. Your clinician confirms when it is reasonable to fly based on your recovery.
Return Home And Remote Check
Many clinics offer remote follow up to monitor healing, answer questions and guide next steps if concerns arise.
Recovery Timeline
Recovery after dimple creation surgery is variable. Swelling and the early look of the dimple can change as tissues settle.
First Few Days
Inner cheek tenderness, swelling and mild bruising can occur. The dimple may look more pronounced at first.
First 2 Weeks
Swelling typically reduces gradually. The dimple can be visible at rest early on, then may become more apparent mainly when smiling as healing progresses.
Weeks To Months
The final appearance often continues to evolve as scar tissue matures and the internal attachment stabilizes. Some changes in visibility over time are possible.
Aftercare And Follow Up
Aftercare for dimpleplasty focuses on keeping the inside of the mouth clean, protecting the stitch area and monitoring for infection. Instructions vary, so follow the clinic’s plan closely.
Oral Care
- Use any recommended mouth rinse and brush carefully to avoid irritating the inner cheek.
- Avoid touching the area with fingers or the tongue as much as possible.
Eating And Activity
- Start with softer foods if advised, then return to normal diet as comfort allows.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the period your clinician recommends, especially in the first days.
Care After Returning Home
- Keep photos to share in remote follow ups if requested.
- Know how to contact your clinic and your local clinician if you develop concerning symptoms.
Risks And Complications
All procedures carry risks, even minor ones. A qualified clinician should explain risks in the context of your health and anatomy before you proceed.
More Common Risks
- Swelling, bruising or tenderness
- Temporary asymmetry during healing
- Infection inside the mouth
- Bleeding or irritation at the stitch site
Less Common Risks
- Unwanted depth or appearance of the dimple
- Persistent asymmetry
- Scarring or a firm feeling in the cheek
- Nerve irritation or altered sensation
- Salivary duct injury, which may require treatment
When To Seek Help
Seek urgent medical care for fever, increasing pain, spreading redness, worsening swelling, pus or foul taste, difficulty opening the mouth, trouble swallowing or any breathing concerns. Your clinic should also provide an escalation plan for international patients after travel.
Why These Destinations
International patients may choose Iran or Turkey for dimple surgery based on clinical experience, facility standards and the ability to coordinate care efficiently while traveling. The right choice depends on surgeon expertise, safety protocols and follow up planning.
Turkey
- High volume aesthetic practice in major cities with established outpatient pathways
- Access to multidisciplinary support if combined with other facial aesthetic care
- Coordinated logistics for consultations, follow ups and travel readiness checks
Iran
- Strong clinical training culture in many urban centers with experienced aesthetic surgeons
- Hospital and clinic networks that can support pre assessment and post procedure monitoring
- Coordination focused on clear documentation and follow up planning for return home
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