Natural vs Artificial Dimples: What’s the Difference?

Dimples are often associated with charm, youthfulness, and an attractive smile. While some people are naturally blessed with dimples, others opt for cosmetic procedures to achieve them. With dimpleplasty trending on social media and among influencers, many people are curious about the real differences between natural dimples and artificial dimples.

This detailed guide covers science, aesthetics, procedures, risks, trends, and FAQs, helping you clearly understand both types.

What Are Dimples?

Dimples are small indentations that appear on the skin—most commonly on the cheeks or chin—especially when smiling.

They occur due to variations in facial muscle structure and skin attachment.

Natural Dimples: Explained

What Causes Natural Dimples?

Natural cheek dimples are usually caused by a shortened or split facial muscle called the zygomaticus major. When you smile, this muscle pulls the skin inward, creating a visible indentation.

Key Characteristics of Natural Dimples

Present from birth or early childhood
Often hereditary (passed through genes)
Appear mainly when smiling
Unique in shape, depth, and placement
May fade with age due to skin laxity

Types of Natural Dimples

Cheek dimples – most common and admired
Chin dimples (cleft chin) – caused by incomplete fusion of jaw bones

Pros of Natural Dimples

? No medical intervention
? Completely natural appearance
? No risk or recovery time

Cons of Natural Dimples

? Cannot be chosen or customized
? May reduce in visibility over time

Artificial Dimples: Explained

What Are Artificial Dimples?

Artificial dimples are created through a cosmetic surgical procedure called dimpleplasty, designed to mimic natural cheek dimples.

How Dimpleplasty Works

A small incision is made inside the cheek (no external scars)
A suture connects the cheek muscle to the skin
When healed, this creates an indentation when smiling

Key Characteristics of Artificial Dimples

Created intentionally through surgery
Can be customized (placement, depth, symmetry)
Initially visible even without smiling
Become more natural-looking over time

Pros of Artificial Dimples

? Choice of location (left, right, or both cheeks)
? Quick procedure (20–30 minutes)
? Minimal downtime
? High popularity among influencers

Cons of Artificial Dimples

? Surgical risks (infection, swelling)
? Results may not look fully natural in some cases
? Can fade or change over time

Natural vs Artificial Dimples: Quick Comparison

Feature	Natural Dimples	Artificial Dimples
Origin	Genetic	Cosmetic procedure
Customization	Not possible	Fully customizable
Appearance	Naturally blended	Initially prominent
Permanence	Usually lifelong	Semi-permanent
Cost	Free	Paid procedure
Risk	None	Low surgical risk
Recovery	Not required	3–7 days

Trending Information (2025–2026)

Why Artificial Dimples Are Trending

Instagram & short-video platforms boosting facial aesthetics
Celebrity and influencer popularity
Non-invasive cosmetic culture growth
Increased acceptance of minor cosmetic procedures

Latest Trends

Subtle micro-dimples instead of deep indentations
Asymmetrical single-cheek dimples
Temporary or reversible dimple techniques under study
Combined procedures with lip enhancement or jawline contouring

Search trends show rising interest in:

“Dimpleplasty cost”
“Natural-looking dimples surgery”
“Cheek dimple before and after”

Are Artificial Dimples Safe?

When performed by a qualified cosmetic surgeon, dimpleplasty is considered low-risk. However, like any procedure, it may involve:

Temporary swelling
Mild pain
Infection (rare)
Over-deep dimples if not planned properly

Choosing an experienced practitioner is crucial.

FAQs: Natural vs Artificial Dimples

1. Are dimples considered attractive?

Yes. Across cultures, dimples are often associated with youthfulness, friendliness, and beauty.

2. Can natural dimples disappear?

Yes. Weight changes, aging, and reduced skin elasticity can make them less visible.

3. Do artificial dimples look fake?

Initially, they may appear more visible. Over time, they usually settle and look more natural.

4. Is dimpleplasty permanent?

It is considered semi-permanent. In some cases, dimples may fade after months or years.

5. Is the procedure painful?

The procedure uses local anesthesia, so pain is minimal.

6. Can artificial dimples be removed?

Yes. In many cases, the suture can be released to reduce or eliminate the dimple.

7. Who should avoid dimpleplasty?

People with active oral infections, poor healing ability, or unrealistic expectations should avoid it.

8. Are artificial dimples noticeable when not smiling?

Initially yes, but they usually become smile-dependent as healing progresses.