Is the Dimple Creation Procedure Painful?

 Dimples are considered one of the most charming facial features, often associated with youthfulness, warmth, and a captivating smile. However, not everyone is born with these attractive indentations. Thanks to modern cosmetic advancements, procedures like Dimple creation in Islamabad now make it possible for individuals to enhance their facial aesthetics in a relatively simple and effective way.

One of the most common questions asked by those considering this procedure is: “Is it painful?” Understanding the sensation, preparation, and healing process involved can ease your mind and help you make an informed decision. This blog explores the level of pain involved, the techniques used to minimize discomfort, and what patients typically experience during and after the procedure.

What Is Dimple Creation Surgery?

Dimple creation, or dimpleplasty, is a cosmetic procedure designed to create natural-looking dimples, typically on the cheeks. It involves a small incision made inside the mouth, where a tiny stitch or suture connects the underlying skin to a facial muscle. When the muscle contracts—usually while smiling—the dimple forms.

The entire procedure usually takes 20–30 minutes and is performed under local anesthesia. It is minimally invasive, has minimal downtime, and the recovery process is generally quick and straightforward.

Is the Procedure Painful?

During the Procedure

Most patients report that the procedure itself is not painful at all. The area is numbed using a local anesthetic, so you won’t feel any pain during the actual creation of the dimple. You might feel slight pressure or mild pulling as the surgeon works, but not sharp pain. Because it doesn’t require general anesthesia, you stay awake but comfortable throughout.

The use of local anesthesia is a major benefit—it significantly reduces risks and costs while ensuring that pain is nearly nonexistent during the treatment. Patients with dental anxiety or low pain tolerance usually find the process more manageable than expected.

Immediately After the Procedure

As the local anesthesia begins to wear off—typically within a few hours—you may start to feel some mild discomfort or soreness in the cheek area. This is normal and expected. The level of discomfort varies from person to person, but most describe it as a dull ache or tenderness similar to the sensation after a dental procedure.

Any pain experienced at this stage is usually very manageable with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Your surgeon may also recommend a cold compress to reduce swelling and provide relief.

Managing Discomfort During Recovery

Swelling and Bruising

You may experience minor swelling or slight bruising for the first few days after surgery. These symptoms are temporary and typically resolve within a week. To manage these side effects:

• Apply ice packs to the affected area intermittently for the first 48 hours.

• Avoid spicy or hard foods that might irritate the inside of your cheeks.

• Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent infection.

Eating and Speaking

Since the incision is inside the mouth, some discomfort while chewing or speaking is normal, especially in the first few days. Opt for soft foods such as yogurt, soup, mashed potatoes, or smoothies. Avoid acidic or crunchy foods until healing progresses.

Mouth movements may also feel slightly restricted or tight, particularly when smiling or laughing. This is due to the internal stitches pulling the muscle to form the dimple and will become more natural over time as the tissue adapts.

Infection and Irritation

While rare, infections can cause increased pain and discomfort. To prevent this:

• Follow all post-operative care instructions from your surgeon.

• Use any prescribed antibiotics or antiseptic mouthwash.

• Contact your clinic if you notice increasing pain, redness, pus, or fever.

Emotional Reassurance and Expectations

It’s natural to feel nervous before any facial procedure. Pain is often subjective and can be heightened by anxiety or fear. Knowing what to expect and preparing in advance can help you feel more relaxed and in control.

Remember:

• The pain level is generally low and temporary.

• The benefits—enhanced facial features and improved confidence—often outweigh the short-lived discomfort.

• Most patients return to work or daily activities within 1–2 days, proving the recovery process is quick and manageable.

How Long Does the Pain Last?

In most cases, discomfort subsides significantly within 2 to 3 days after the procedure. By the end of the first week, most patients feel almost no pain at all. The dimples will continue to mature and blend more naturally into your facial expression over the next few weeks.

Some people report a pulling sensation when smiling or laughing during this adjustment period. This too fades as the suture dissolves and the scar tissue settles into place.

Can You Request Sedation?

If you’re extremely sensitive to pain or nervous about the procedure, it’s worth discussing sedation options with your surgeon. While local anesthesia is sufficient for most people, clinics may offer oral sedation for patients who require a more relaxed state during treatment. However, sedation will require someone to accompany you to and from the clinic and may extend recovery time slightly.

Tips to Minimize Pain and Discomfort

1. Follow All Aftercare Instructions: Strictly adhere to your surgeon’s advice regarding cleaning, eating, and medication use.

2. Use Prescribed Medications: Don’t skip antibiotics or painkillers if they’re recommended.

3. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: These can irritate the surgical site and slow healing.

4. Stay Hydrated and Rested: Good overall health supports faster healing and less discomfort.

5. Avoid Strenuous Activity: Give your facial muscles time to heal by minimizing excessive movements.

Conclusion

Dimple creation is a simple, safe, and largely painless procedure for those looking to enhance their facial aesthetics. While there is some minor discomfort during the early recovery period, it is manageable and temporary. With a skilled surgeon and proper care, most patients experience minimal pain and are delighted with their results.

If you're considering Dimple creation in Islamabad and are concerned about discomfort, rest assured that the procedure is one of the most minimally invasive and low-risk facial cosmetic treatments available today. For expert care, a personalized approach, and exceptional results, book your consultation at Dynamic Clinic—a trusted name in cosmetic excellence in Pakistan.