| 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. |
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| The wounds are repaired with dissolvable sutures which don’t 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 | Cosmetic, 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, Cosmetic 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 and serious risks are rare | |
| Risk factors | Smoking / contraception / flights within 6 weeks of surgery, overweight, high blood pressure, bleeding tendency, diabetes, avoid smiling for 3 weeks |
| Optimising factors | Diet rich in Vitamin C and protein, plenty of fluids, fresh air, sun protection, mouthwash |
| Discomfort | 1 week |
| Bruising | 2 – 3 weeks |
| Recovery | Light activities and driving after 1 week, Physical work & sports 6 weeks |
| Acceptable appearance | 2 – 4 weeks for most patients (This is subjective) |
| Final result | 6 – 18 months |
| Alternatives | No Surgery, Make up |
