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Is dimple surgery permanent?: What to know before you book

27 August 2026

Dimple surgery, also known as dimpleplasty or dimple creation surgery, is a quick, minimally invasive procedure that creates a permanent dimple by attaching the inside of the cheek to the overlying skin. Although the result is intended to last, it doesn’t look natural straight away. The dimple gradually softens over several months as the tissues heal, making patience an important part of the process.

Natural dimples are caused by a small variation in the facial muscles, creating an indentation when you smile. Dimpleplasty recreates this effect using a carefully placed internal stitch. While the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, deciding whether it’s right for you requires careful thought. Understanding how the result develops over time, how permanent it is and how placement affects the final appearance can help you make an informed decision.

At 101 Harley Street, every patient undergoes a detailed facial assessment before treatment. Careful planning helps ensure the position, depth and symmetry of the dimple complement your natural facial features rather than looking artificial.

What is dimple surgery?

Dimple surgery, or dimpleplasty, is a minor cosmetic procedure that creates the appearance of a natural cheek dimple. It is usually performed under local anaesthetic and typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

During the procedure, your surgeon creates a small opening inside the cheek before placing an internal stitch between the cheek muscle and the underside of the skin. As the tissues heal around this stitch, a small indentation forms that becomes visible when the muscle contracts during smiling.

Because the incision is made inside the mouth, there is no visible external scar. Most patients return home shortly after treatment and can resume many normal daily activities within a few days.

Is dimple surgery permanent?

Yes. Dimple surgery is generally intended to create a permanent result.

Unlike dermal fillers or other temporary cosmetic treatments, dimpleplasty works by encouraging the tissues inside the cheek to heal together in a way that recreates the appearance of a natural dimple. Once healing is complete, the indentation usually remains long term.

Because the result is permanent, it’s important to think carefully before proceeding. While revision surgery may be possible in some circumstances, reversing a surgically created dimple is far more complex than creating one in the first place. This is why a thorough consultation and realistic expectations are essential.

Although the dimple itself is designed to last, the way it looks will continue to evolve during the healing process. This is one of the most common points of confusion for patients researching dimple surgery.

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Why do new dimples look different at first?

Many patients expect their dimple to look natural immediately after surgery. In reality, the early appearance is very different from the final result.

During the first few weeks, the dimple is often visible even when your face is relaxed. It may also appear deeper, tighter or more pronounced than expected. Some patients describe this early stage as looking more like a small piercing or indentation than a natural dimple.

This is completely normal.

The tissues inside the cheek need time to heal around the internal stitch. As swelling settles and the tissues gradually relax, the dimple becomes softer and less noticeable at rest. Instead, it begins to appear mainly when you smile, closely mimicking the behaviour of a naturally occurring dimple.

For many patients, this change happens gradually over several months. Although the exact timeline varies, the final result often isn’t fully established until around six months after surgery. In some cases, subtle refinement continues for up to a year.

Understanding this settling process before treatment can help prevent unnecessary anxiety during the early stages of recovery. A dimple that looks slightly exaggerated at first is not usually an indication that something has gone wrong.

Who may be suitable for dimple surgery?

Dimple surgery may be suitable for adults who would like to create one or two permanent dimples for cosmetic reasons. While the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, not every face will suit the same dimple shape, depth or position.

The best candidates are usually those who:

Are in good general health.
Have realistic expectations about the final result.
Understand that the dimple will be a permanent feature.
Are happy to wait for the result to settle naturally over several months.

It’s also important to remember that dimples are not a one-size-fits-all feature. The same dimple can look very different depending on your facial proportions, cheek fullness and smile pattern. During consultation, your surgeon will assess these factors carefully before recommending whether dimple surgery is likely to complement your features.

What happens during your consultation?

Careful planning is one of the most important parts of successful dimple surgery.

Rather than simply asking where you would like the dimple to sit, your surgeon will assess how your facial muscles move when you smile. They’ll also consider your facial proportions, cheek volume and natural symmetry to identify the position most likely to create a realistic-looking result.

During your consultation, your surgeon will:

Discuss your reasons for considering dimple surgery.
Assess your facial anatomy and smile pattern.
Recommend the most natural position and depth for the dimple.
Explain how the result is expected to change during healing.
Discuss the potential risks and limitations of the procedure.
Answer any questions before you decide whether to proceed.

This consultation is also an opportunity to discuss whether one or two dimples would best suit your face. Although some patients arrive with a very specific idea in mind, your surgeon may recommend a different position or advise against treatment if they don’t believe it will produce a natural-looking result.

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What does the dimple surgery procedure involve?

Dimple surgery is usually performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case procedure, meaning you can return home shortly afterwards.

Once the inside of the cheek has been numbed, your surgeon creates a small incision inside the mouth. A carefully positioned internal stitch is then placed between the cheek muscle and the underside of the skin. This creates a small indentation that mimics the way a natural dimple forms when the facial muscles contract.

The entire procedure typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. Because all the work is carried out inside the mouth, there is no visible scar on the outside of the cheek.

After treatment, you’ll be able to return home the same day with detailed aftercare instructions. Most patients experience only mild discomfort during the first few days, which is usually managed with simple pain relief if needed.

What is the recovery and aftercare like after dimple surgery?

Recovery after dimple surgery is usually quick, although the appearance of the dimple continues to change for much longer than many patients expect.

It’s normal for the cheek to feel tight or slightly swollen during the first few days. The dimple will also be visible even when your face is relaxed. Although this can seem unusual at first, it’s a normal part of the healing process.

Recovery timeline

Recovery stage	What to expect
First few days	Mild swelling, tightness and tenderness are common. The dimple is usually visible even when your face is at rest.
Weeks 2–6	Swelling continues to improve. The dimple gradually begins to soften, although it may still appear more noticeable than expected.
Months 2–6	The tissues continue to relax and the dimple starts to appear more naturally when you smile rather than remaining visible all the time.
Around 6–12 months	Most patients see their final result, with a softer, more natural-looking dimple that blends with their facial expressions.

Your surgeon will also explain how to care for the inside of your mouth while the small incision heals. Maintaining good oral hygiene and following your aftercare instructions helps reduce the risk of infection and supports smooth healing.

Although many patients return to work and everyday activities within a day or two, it’s important to remember that the cosmetic result continues to evolve for several months. Being patient during this settling period is one of the most important parts of achieving a natural-looking outcome.

Are there any risks to consider with dimple surgery?

Dimple surgery is generally considered a safe, minor procedure when performed by an experienced surgeon. However, like all surgery, it carries potential risks that should be discussed before treatment.

Temporary swelling, bruising and tenderness are common during the early stages of recovery. Less common risks include infection, bleeding, delayed healing and asymmetry if the dimples heal differently on each side.

Careful planning is also essential. The position, depth and angle of the dimple all influence how natural the final result appears. Poor placement can leave a dimple looking too deep, off-centre or unnatural, which is why consultation plays such an important role.

Because the result is intended to be permanent, your surgeon will also discuss whether dimple surgery is likely to complement your facial features over the long term. The aim isn’t simply to create a dimple, but to create one that looks balanced and natural when you smile.

As with any cosmetic procedure, your suitability, the potential risks, expected recovery and likely outcome will all be discussed in detail before treatment.

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What are the benefits and limitations of dimple surgery?

Like any cosmetic procedure, dimple surgery has both advantages and limitations. Understanding both helps you decide whether it’s the right choice for you.

Benefits

– Creates a permanent dimple without the need for repeat treatments.

– Quick procedure, usually completed in 15–30 minutes.

– Performed under local anaesthetic as a day-case procedure.

– No visible external scarring.

– Short recovery compared with many other facial surgical procedures.

For patients who have always wanted dimples, the procedure can create a subtle change that enhances facial expression without dramatically altering their appearance.

Limitations

Dimple surgery isn’t suitable for everyone. While the procedure can create an attractive result, it can’t guarantee that every face will suit a surgically created dimple in the same way.

The biggest limitation is that the result is permanent. Unlike dermal fillers, a dimple can’t simply be dissolved or adjusted if your preferences change in the future.

It’s also important to understand that the final appearance takes time to develop. During the first few months, the dimple often looks deeper and more noticeable than expected before gradually softening into a more natural-looking result.

Finally, facial ageing continues throughout life. Although there’s no evidence that surgically created dimples age differently from natural dimples, your facial contours will naturally change over time. Your surgeon will discuss this during consultation so you can make an informed decision about a permanent procedure.

Why choose 101 Harley Street in London?

Successful dimple surgery relies on careful planning just as much as surgical technique.

At 101 Harley Street, every consultation begins with a detailed assessment of your facial anatomy, smile pattern and aesthetic goals. Rather than recommending the same approach for every patient, our consultants carefully assess where a dimple is most likely to look natural and whether the procedure is appropriate for your individual features.

You’ll also receive honest advice about the settling process, recovery and expected results before making any decision. This consultant-led approach helps ensure your expectations are realistic and your treatment plan is tailored to you.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Dimple Surgery

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Is dimple surgery permanent?

Yes. Dimple surgery is generally intended to create a permanent result. The internal tissues heal together to form a lasting indentation, although the appearance continues to soften during the months after surgery.

How long does it take for surgically created dimples to look natural?

Although healing varies between individuals, most patients notice the dimple gradually softening over six months. In some cases, subtle changes continue for up to a year before the final result is fully established.

Why do new dimples look fake or tight at first?

Immediately after surgery, the internal stitch holds the tissues firmly together while healing begins. As swelling settles and the tissues relax, the dimple gradually becomes softer and appears more naturally when you smile.

Can dimple surgery be reversed?

Dimple surgery is intended to be permanent. While revision procedures may be possible in some circumstances, reversal is more complex than the original procedure and cannot always restore the cheek to its previous appearance.

Does dimple surgery suit every face shape?

Not necessarily. Facial proportions, cheek volume and smile pattern all influence how natural a surgically created dimple will look. During consultation, your surgeon will assess whether the procedure is likely to complement your facial features.

What determines where a dimple is placed?

Your surgeon will assess your smile pattern, facial symmetry and underlying anatomy before recommending the most appropriate position. The aim is to create a dimple that looks balanced and natural rather than simply placing it where requested.

Is dimple surgery painful?

The procedure itself is usually performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during treatment. Afterwards, it’s normal to experience mild tenderness or tightness for a few days, although this is usually well managed with simple pain relief if required.

How much does dimple surgery cost in London?

The cost varies depending on the clinic, surgeon and whether you’re having one or two dimples created. You’ll receive a personalised quotation during your consultation once your treatment plan has been confirmed.

Discuss whether dimple surgery is right for you with a specialist

Dimple surgery is a straightforward procedure that creates a long-lasting result, but achieving a natural-looking outcome depends on careful planning, realistic expectations and patience during recovery. While the dimple itself is intended to be permanent, the final appearance develops gradually as the tissues heal and settle over several months.

If you’re considering dimple surgery, a consultation is the best place to start. Your surgeon can assess your facial anatomy, discuss where a dimple is most likely to look natural and explain what you can realistically expect before, during and after treatment.

At 101 Harley Street, every treatment plan is tailored to the individual, helping you make an informed decision with confidence.

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How can you find us?

Our surgery is located on Harley Street in Marylebone, London, within one of the world’s most prestigious and historic medical districts. Situated at 101 Harley Street, the clinic offers a discreet and refined setting in the heart of Central London, bringing together leading consultants, advanced facilities and personalised care.

We welcome patients from across the world, as well as patients travelling to London from across the UK and internationally for specialist medical, surgical and aesthetic treatments.

Our location benefits from excellent transport connections. Regent’s Park, Oxford Circus and Baker Street Underground stations are all within easy walking distance, while major London rail stations and international airports including Heathrow, Gatwick and London City provide convenient access for national and international visitors.

Whether you are travelling from within London or further afield, our Harley Street clinic provides a calm, professional environment designed to deliver exceptional care in one of the capital’s most respected medical locations.

Opening hours

Monday

9 am–5 pm

Tuesday

9 am–5 pm

Wednesday

9 am–5 pm

Thursday

9 am–5 pm

Friday

9 am–5 pm

Saturday

9 am–5 pm

Sunday

Closed

Contact

02035760335
info@101hs.co.uk

101 Harley Street Day Surgery

101 Harley St, London W1G 6AH

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