What Causes Dimples and Why We Find Them Fascinating

Ever wondered why some smiles light up with adorable dimples? These tiny indentations, usually found on the cheeks or chin, aren’t just a cute quirk—they’re a result of unique muscle structures and genetics.

In this blog, we explore the science behind facial dimples, why they’re considered attractive, whether they can fade with time, and the surgical options available to create or remove them.

How Are Cheek Dimples Formed?

Dimples that appear on the cheeks when we smile are formed due to variations in the zygomaticus major muscle. This muscle, which is crucial for facial expressions, runs typically from your cheekbone to the corner of your mouth. But if you have dimples, it may act a bit differently.

In individuals blessed with dimples, this muscle splits into two bundles. One bundle connects to the corner of your mouth as usual, while the other attaches below it and is attached to the skin above. This unique arrangement causes the skin to dip when this muscle contracts during a smile, giving rise to those adorable dimples.

You can have dimples on one or both cheeks. And yes, they are often inherited. Roughly 20-37% of us have cheek dimples, but this figure can vary depending on where you live. Let’s now explore the different types of dimples that grace our faces.

Different Types of Dimples

There’s more to dimples than meets the eye. Here are three main types:

1. Cheek Dimples: Undoubtedly, these are the most common type and form on your cheeks due to muscle variations. People often find them attractive and they can make smiles more captivating!
2. Chin Dimples: Also known as cleft chins, these dimples are caused by a gap in the lower jawbone that develops during embryonic growth, resulting in a noticeable indentation.
3. Sacral Dimples: Located near your lower back, these dimples are usually harmless but may need medical attention if they’re associated with other symptoms.

While cheek dimples steal most of the limelight, chin and sacral dimples are seen less often.

Dimples have a unique place in various cultures, often associated with beauty, luck, or youthfulness. Their relative rarity enhances their desirability, making them a sought-after trait in some societies. Whether on the cheek or chin, dimples are formed through unique muscle structures and genetic factors, making them an intriguing feature that varies widely among individuals.

Are Dimples Genetic? The Science Behind the Trait

Dimples often leave many people intrigued by their appearance. Certain genetic factors contribute to their formation. In the past, it was widely held that dimples on the face were governed by a single dominant gene.

However, recent advancements in genetic studies suggest that this belief is far from accurate. According to research, there are at least nine distinct genetic variants that might play a role in the occurrence of dimples. This indicates that the genetics of dimples is not as straightforward as Mendelian inheritance would suggest, and they are often referred to as an “irregular dominant trait”. This means that even siblings may present different dimple patterns or lack them entirely.

The physical basis for dimples lies in the structure of the zygomaticus major muscle, which tends to split into two separate strands in those with dimples. When we smile, the muscle contracts causing a visible indentation or ‘dimple’ in the skin.

Family studies further indicate that the inheritance of dimples follows an autosomal dominant pattern, which means they frequently appear in successive generations within families. However, scientists are still striving to understand the exact mechanisms behind their inheritance.

Why Are Dimples Seen as Attractive?

Turning our attention towards societal perceptions, it’s no surprise that dimples are considered highly attractive. They are synonymous with youthfulness and a certain captivating charm, which can amplify facial expressions and add allure to an individual’s smile.

Perceptions around dimples vary considerably across cultures. In certain societies, they are admired as symbols of good luck or beauty, enhancing their desirability among people. Their rarity adds to their appeal, rendering a person’s smile more distinctive and thereby making it more memorable.

Moreover, societal perceptions have often linked the presence of dimples with positive traits, adding a touch of allure to their bearers. So, whether you’re one of the lucky individuals with dimples or simply an admirer of these charming indentations, remember that every smile is special in its unique way.

Dimple Surgery: Risks and Recovery Tips

Dimples have an undeniable charm, and some people even undergo surgical procedures to have these dimples on their faces. However, just like any surgical intervention, dimple creation, or dimpleplasty, also comes with its share of complications.

Dimpleplasty is generally safe and straightforward. However, inherent risks such as bleeding, infection and scarring must not be overlooked. Similarly, scarring is a possible outcome, but it is usually minimal; most patients experience little to no scarring after a month.

It is essential to recognise these complications to facilitate their effective management. Anyone experiencing adverse side effects should consult their surgeon immediately. Maintaining good oral hygiene and taking prescribed antibiotics can help prevent infections. Applying ice packs can reduce mild swelling and discomfort after surgery.

Do Dimples Fade with Age or Weight Loss?

Now, you may wonder why dimples occur on your face or whether they can disappear over time. For some individuals, dimples may appear more prominent in their early years and fade as they age. This occurs when one loses skin laxity or undergoes significant weight loss with age. However, in most cases, this genetically inherited trait does not disappear completely.

On the other hand, weight gain may make the dimples appear more prominent due to the accumulation of excess facial fat. So, while your smile dimples may change over time, become less visible or more pronounced based on various factors, they rarely vanish completely.

How to Get (or Remove) Dimples: Medical & Cosmetic Options

When it comes to facial dimples, both surgical and non-surgical options are available for those seeking to create or remove them.

1. Surgical Option

Dimple Creation Surgery (Dimpleplasty):

• This procedure is generally performed under local anaesthesia and lasts around 30 to 45 minutes. It involves a small incision inside the mouth and the creation of a scar that imitates the natural appearance of dimples.
• Although it primarily aims to create dimples, this technique can also be employed to remove or alter existing dimples by adjusting the depth and position of the incision and sutures.
• Although it is generally considered safe, complications can still arise, including infections, abscess formation, and scarring. In rare instances, patients may experience substantial swelling or painful complications.
• Proper post-operative care plays a crucial role in minimising risks. This includes maintaining good oral hygiene and, if necessary, using antibiotics.

2. Non-Surgical Option

Dermal Fillers:

• While not a direct method for removing dimples, fillers can alter facial contours and may reduce the visibility of dimples by adding volume to the surrounding tissue. However, this method is temporary and requires constant maintenance.

Individuals considering these options should consult with qualified cosmetic surgeons to discuss their goals, understand the benefits of the procedure, and be aware of potential complications. Stay informed and choose wisely!

Who Should Avoid Dimple Surgery?

1. Chronic Illnesses: Individuals with medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or autoimmune disorders, may face higher risks during surgery and complications during recovery. These conditions can complicate the healing process.
2. Blood Disorders: Patients with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulant medications may have an increased risk of excessive bleeding during or after the procedure. This can lead to complications that may require additional medical intervention.
3. Infections: Active infections, particularly in the area where the surgery will be performed, can pose significant risks. Surgery should be postponed until any infections are treated and resolved.
4. Smoking: Smokers are generally advised against undergoing cosmetic surgeries, including dimpleplasty, as smoking can impair blood flow and healing, increasing the risk of complications such as infections and scarring.
5. Mental Health Considerations: Emotional stability and realistic expectations are crucial. Individuals with significant mental health issues or unrealistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery may not be suitable candidates.

While there are no absolute contraindications for dimpleplasty, a thorough consultation with a qualified surgeon is essential to determine whether the procedure is suitable for you.

Takeaway

Whether you’re naturally blessed with dimples or considering cosmetic options to achieve them, this unique facial feature continues to capture attention and admiration worldwide. While they carry no health risks and are mostly genetic, understanding the science behind dimples can help us appreciate the intricate beauty of human anatomy. If you’re considering dimpleplasty, always consult a qualified professional and weigh the risks and benefits to make an informed decision.

Expert Quote

“Dimples are a fascinating example of how small anatomical variations, especially in facial muscles, can create features that are both genetically inherited and culturally admired.”

-Dr Anubha Karol

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• Are facial dimples determined by genetics?: MedlinePlus Genetics. (n.d.). https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/understanding/traits/dimples/
• Almaary, H. F., Karthik, R., & Scott, C. (2018, May 1). New landmarks for the surgical creation of dimples based on facial form. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5955629/
• Lari, A., & Panse, N. (2012). Anatomical basis of dimple creation – A new technique: Our experience of 100 cases. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery, 45(1), 89. https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-0358.96593