| DPL | Dimpleplasty Surgery |
|---|---|
| Procedure | A dimpleplasty is performed through small cuts on the inside of the cheeks. The location is planned to lie under the outer eye (=lateral canthus) at the level of the mouth (=oral commissure). The undersurface of the cheek skin is sutured to the underlying cheek muscle (=buccinator muscle) with dissolving sutures. The wounds are repaired with dissolvable sutures which do not require removal. Soft food and mouth wash are advisable for one week. |
| Scars | 5mm inside the cheek |
| Operation time | 1 hour |
| Anaesthesia | General > (Local) |
| Hospital Stay | Day Surgery |
| Benefits | Aesthetic, Psychological |
| Risks | Bleeding, Infection, Scar problems, Wound separation, Slough, Necrosis, Pain, Nerve injury (Numbness, weakness, paralysis), Bruising, Swelling, Overcorrection, Undercorrection, Asymmetry, Dimple malposition, Dimple can disappear again, Aesthetic imperfections, Seroma, Cheek biting, Contour irregularities, Need for further surgery, Allergic reaction, (General anaesthetic procedures: Chest infection, Heart attack, Stroke, Blood clots in legs & lungs). N.B. Most complications are unlikely. Serious risks or death are rare |
| Risk factors | Alcohol, Hot and chewy food can lead to unintended bite or burns injuries after surgery, Poor oral hygiene, Too early or excessive mobilisation, Wound interference without surgeon's agreement; Contraindications which preclude surgery unless discussed otherwise in the consultation: Smoking / vaping / nicotine / recreational inhalations within 6 weeks before and after surgery, Contraception with estrogens or HRT tablets (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel over 2 hours within 6 weeks before and after surgery (if under general anaesthetic), Air travel under 2 hours within 2 weeks before and after surgery, Overweight (Body Mass Index = BMI of 27 and over), Recent weight changes over 6kg, Pregnancy (if under general anaesthetic), Raised blood pressure (if poorly controlled), Bleeding tendency (Stop herbal products or supplements for two weeks before surgery), Diabetes or immunosuppression (if poorly controlled) |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sufficient sleep, sun protection, mouthwash, avoid smiling for 3 weeks |
| Discomfort | 1 week |
| Bruising | 2 - 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities and driving after 3-4 days, physical work & sports 4 weeks |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 - 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 - 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Make up |
Anstey Hall
Maris Lane
Cambridge
CB2 9LN
