Table of contents

• What Is Dimple Surgery?
• Best Dimple Surgery Clinics in Korea
• Dimple Surgery in Korea
• Cost of Dimple Surgery in Korea
• Alternatives to Dimple Surgery
• Conclusion

What Is Dimple Surgery?

Dimple surgery, also known as dimpleplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to create dimples on the cheeks or chin. Dimples are small indentations that appear on the skin when someone smiles. They are often considered a sign of attractiveness and youthful appearance. While dimples occur naturally due to variations in facial muscle structure, not everyone is born with them. Dimple surgery offers an option for those wishing to enhance their facial aesthetics by adding these coveted features.

Who Is It For?

Dimple surgery is suitable for individuals who:

1. Desire to enhance their facial features by adding dimples.
2. Are in good health, without any medical conditions that could impair healing.
3. Have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery.
4. Are at least 18 years old, although some clinics may perform the procedure on younger patients with parental consent.

This procedure is popular among both men and women, and there's no specific age limit; however, it is more commonly sought by adults and young professionals who are keen on improving their facial symmetry and charm.

Types of Dimple Surgery

Dimple surgery can be categorized into two primary types based on the location of the dimples:

1. Cheek Dimpleplasty

Cheek dimpleplasty is the most common type of dimple surgery. The procedure involves creating a small depression in the cheek area.

Procedure Details:

• Consultation: The process begins with a consultation to discuss the desired dimple location and size.
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is administered to the targeted area to minimize discomfort.
• Incision and Muscle Modification: The surgeon makes a small, painless incision inside the mouth at the desired dimple site. This avoids any visible scarring. A small part of the cheek muscle is removed and the skin is attached to a deeper layer to create a natural-looking dimple.
• Recovery: The procedure typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, and recovery time is minimal. Most patients can return to their normal activities within a couple of days.

2. Chin Dimpleplasty

Chin dimpleplasty, less commonly performed but equally effective, is aimed at creating a “cleft” in the chin area.

Procedure Details:

• Consultation: Similar to cheek dimpleplasty, an initial consultation is crucial to discuss expectations and possible outcomes.
• Anesthesia: Local anesthesia is used to numb the chin area.
• Incision and Muscle Anchorage: A small incision is made inside the mouth. The surgeon then manipulates the chin muscle and skin to form the desired indentation. Unlike cheek dimples, chin dimples often require anchoring the skin to the chin bone for more pronounced results.
• Recovery: The procedure duration and recovery period are similar to cheek dimpleplasty. Patients may experience slight swelling or bruising, which subsides within a week.

Benefits and Risks

Benefits:

• Enhanced facial aesthetics and symmetry.
• Permanent results if properly maintained.
• Minimal downtime and fast recovery.

Risks:

Though generally safe, dimple surgery carries some risks, including:

• Infection
• Scarring
• Uneven dimples
• Numbness at the surgical site

Selecting a qualified and experienced surgeon can significantly minimize these risks.

By understanding the specifics of dimple surgery, one can make an informed decision about whether this procedure is suitable for their aesthetic goals.

Best Dimple Surgery Clinics in Korea

THEPLUS Plastic Surgery

Situated in the vibrant Garosu-gil area of Gangnam, Seoul, THEPLUS Plastic Surgery stands out as the premier choice for dimple surgery in Korea, merging world-class medical expertise with state-of-the-art facilities. Spanning four meticulously designed floors that cater to every phase of patient care—ranging from initial consultation to surgery and post-operative skincare—the clinic epitomizes holistic patient care and luxury.

Surgeons at THE PLUS are not just practitioners but esteemed medical researchers who contribute regularly to academic journals and publications. Their active participation in both domestic and international medical symposiums showcases their commitment to staying ahead of the curve in cosmetic surgery advancements. This sustained pursuit of excellence, led by esteemed figures such as Dr. Jeong Jae Yong and Dr. Kim Taek Kyun, ensures that patients receive cutting-edge care and personalized communication throughout their surgical journey. Furthermore, the clinic's uncompromising focus on safety, with a team boasting over a decade of professional experience, underscores its reputation for delivering exceptional results, making it the ideal destination for anyone considering dimple surgery in Korea.

You can check out their website here: THEPLUS Plastic Surgery Website

Dimple Surgery in Korea

Dimple surgery, also known as dimpleplasty, is a popular cosmetic procedure in South Korea, where the demand for facial aesthetic enhancements is particularly high. This procedure aims to create natural-looking dimples on the cheeks, enhancing facial expressions and contributing to an individual's overall attractiveness.

Consultation and Planning

The journey begins with a thorough consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon. South Korean clinics are known for their meticulous attention to detail and high standards of patient care. During this consultation, the surgeon will assess your facial structure, discuss your aesthetic goals, and determine the ideal location and size of the dimples. Digital imaging technology is often employed to provide a preview of the potential results, ensuring that both patient and surgeon are on the same page.

Pre-Surgery Preparations

Before the procedure, a comprehensive medical history is taken to rule out any conditions that might affect the surgery. Patients are advised to stop smoking and avoid certain medications that could interfere with healing. On the day of the surgery, you are typically asked to fast for several hours prior to the procedure.

The Surgical Procedure

Dimple surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about 30 to 60 minutes. The surgeon begins by marking the precise location of the future dimples on your cheeks. An incision is then made inside the mouth, at the inner cheek lining, avoiding any external scars. Through this incision, a small amount of muscle and fat is removed or adjusted, and a suture is placed to create a natural-looking dimple when you smile.

Recovery Process

Post-surgery, patients may experience swelling and mild discomfort, which are common and usually subside within a week. Pain is generally minimal and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relief medications. South Korean clinics often provide detailed aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor healing and ensure optimal results.

Cultural and Aesthetic Considerations

In Korea, facial aesthetics are highly valued, and the concept of "small face" and balanced features are particularly emphasized. Dimples are often seen as a charming attribute that adds character and youthfulness to the face. The procedure is highly customizable, allowing for variations in dimple depth and placement to match individual preferences and facial anatomies.

Advanced Techniques

South Korean plastic surgeons are at the forefront of cosmetic surgery advancements. Many clinics offer state-of-the-art facilities and utilize the latest techniques to minimize downtime and maximize results. Innovations such as absorbable sutures and minimally invasive approaches are commonly employed, reflecting the country's commitment to excellence in cosmetic surgery.

Patient Experience

Patients undergoing dimple surgery in Korea can expect a high level of professionalism and personalized care. English-speaking staff are often available in major clinics, catering to the growing number of international patients seeking cosmetic procedures in Korea. From initial consultation to post-operative care, the process is designed to be smooth and reassuring, with an emphasis on achieving natural and aesthetically pleasing outcomes.

Cost of Dimple Surgery in Korea

Dimple surgery, also known as dimpleplasty, has garnered significant attention in Korea due to the nation's leading position in cosmetic surgery. The average cost of dimple surgery in Korea ranges between $700 to $2,000 USD. This variation largely depends on the reputation of the clinic, the expertise of the surgeon, and the specific techniques used during the procedure.

Beyond the surgery itself, potential patients should also consider additional expenses associated with traveling to Korea for their cosmetic needs. Round-trip airfare to Korea can vary greatly depending on the departure location, time of booking, and season. On average, flights from the United States to Korea cost between $800 and $1,500 USD for economy class.

Accommodation is another significant expense. Prices for hotels in Korea can range from $50 to $300 per night, with an average of around $100 per night for a decent, mid-range hotel. Typically, patients may need to stay for about a week, making the accommodation cost roughly $700 USD.

Daily travel expenses, including public transportation, meals, and incidental costs, can add another $50 to $100 per day. A one-week stay could therefore amount to approximately $350 to $700 USD for these daily expenses.

Overall, the total cost for an overseas patient seeking dimple surgery in Korea, including the procedure, airfare, accommodation, and daily travel expenses, can range from approximately $2,550 to $4,900 USD. These estimates, however, may fluctuate based on personal preferences and other variable factors.

Alternatives to Dimple Surgery

Facial Exercises

One of the non-invasive alternatives to dimple surgery involves facial exercises. By regularly engaging facial muscles through specific exercises, you can potentially enhance the natural contours of your face, including the creation of dimples. These exercises typically involve puckering your lips and sucking in your cheeks frequently to stimulate the formation of natural dimples. Although results may vary and take time, this method is safe, cost-effective, and does not involve any surgical risks or recovery time.

Makeup

Another popular and non-surgical option to achieve the appearance of dimples is through makeup techniques. Using contouring and highlighting products strategically can create the illusion of dimples. Makeup artists often use darker contour shades to create shadow effects and highlighter to mimic the look of natural dimples. This method allows for temporary dimples and can be altered or enhanced depending on personal preference, making it a flexible and reversible option.

Injectable Fillers

For a more semi-permanent solution, injectable fillers can be used to simulate the appearance of dimples. Dermal fillers, such as hyaluronic acid, can be injected into specific points on the cheeks to create the indentation effect similar to natural dimples. This procedure is minimally invasive compared to traditional surgery, involves less downtime, and can be customized to achieve the desired depth and location of the dimples. The effects usually last several months to a year, depending on the type of filler used and individual skin characteristics.

Consider discussing these alternatives with a qualified professional to determine the best option for achieving the desired aesthetic results safely and effectively.

Conclusion

In conclusion, dimple surgery in Korea exemplifies the blend of advanced medical techniques and cultural aesthetics, making it a sought-after procedure for those desiring a youthful and cheerful appearance. With Korea's reputation for cutting-edge cosmetic surgery and its skilled surgeons, patients can expect high standards of care and satisfying outcomes. As long as prospective candidates carefully consider the commitment and choose reputable clinics, dimple surgery can be a gratifying enhancement, adding a touch of charm and uniqueness to their facial expressions.