Dimple Creation in Korea: Complete Guide to Prices & Procedures 2025
Dimples have long been considered charming and youthful across cultures. For those not naturally blessed with them, Korean clinics offer safe, affordable dimple creation procedures.
What is Dimple Creation?
Dimpleplasty is a minor surgical procedure that creates natural-looking dimples on the cheeks or chin. The procedure creates a small connection between the skin and underlying muscle, so when you smile, a dimple appears.
Key Points:
- Minor surgical procedure
- Local anesthesia only
- 20-30 minute procedure
- Permanent results
- Done from inside the mouth (no visible scars)
Types of Dimples
Cheek Dimples
- Most common request
- Appear when smiling
- Various positions available
Chin Dimple (Cleft Chin)
- Central chin indentation
- Creates defined look
- Different technique required
Dimple Positions
| Position | Description | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | Center of cheek | Most common |
| Lower | Below standard position | Natural look |
| Near mouth | Closer to smile line | Youthful |
| Custom | Based on face shape | Personalized |
Dimple Creation Prices in Korea (2025)
| Procedure | Price (KRW) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Dimple | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
| Both Cheeks | ₩500,000-1,000,000 | $385-770 |
| Chin Dimple | ₩400,000-700,000 | $310-540 |
| Revision | ₩300,000-500,000 | $230-385 |
Prices as of January 2025.
Korea vs. International Pricing
| Location | Both Cheeks |
|---|---|
| Seoul | $385-770 |
| Los Angeles | $1,500-3,000 |
| Savings | 70-75% |
How the Procedure Works
Surgical Technique
- Local anesthesia applied inside mouth
- Small incision made inside cheek
- Suture placed connecting skin to muscle
- Suture tied to create dimple depth
- Incision closed with dissolvable stitches
The Science
The suture creates scar tissue that permanently connects the skin to the buccinator muscle. When you smile and the muscle contracts, it pulls the skin inward, creating the dimple.
Expected Results
Timeline
| Timeframe | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Dimple visible even at rest |
| Week 1-2 | Swelling, deep dimple |
| Month 1 | Dimple starts softening |
| Month 2-3 | Natural appearance |
| Month 6+ | Final, permanent result |
Important Note
Initially, the dimple is visible even when not smiling. Over 1-3 months, as swelling resolves and tissues settle, the dimple becomes visible only when smiling—just like a natural dimple.
The Procedure Experience
Before
- Consultation to determine ideal position
- Photographs and marking
- Medical history review
During (20-30 minutes)
- Mouth rinsed with antiseptic
- Local anesthetic injected inside cheek
- Procedure performed through mouth
- No external incisions
After
- Mild discomfort (manageable with OTC pain relief)
- Swelling for 1-2 weeks
- Soft diet recommended initially
- Oral rinse after meals
Recovery
Day-by-Day
| Day | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Day 1-3 | Swelling, discomfort, soft diet |
| Day 4-7 | Swelling reducing, easier eating |
| Week 2 | Most swelling gone |
| Week 3-4 | Near-normal appearance |
Aftercare Instructions
First Week:
- Soft, lukewarm foods
- Rinse mouth after eating
- Avoid spicy/acidic foods
- No smoking or alcohol
- Sleep with head elevated
Weeks 2-4:
- Gradually resume normal diet
- Continue oral hygiene
- Avoid trauma to area
- No aggressive facial movements
Risks and Complications
Common
- Swelling (1-2 weeks)
- Mild discomfort
- Temporary facial stiffness
Uncommon
- Asymmetry (may need revision)
- Dimple too deep or shallow
- Dimple visible at rest (usually temporary)
Rare
- Infection
- Nerve damage
- Scar tissue issues
Revision
If results aren't satisfactory, revision is possible after 6 months. Dimples can be:
- Deepened
- Repositioned
- Removed (more complex)
Ideal Candidates
Good Candidates
✅ Desire permanent dimples ✅ Understand it's a surgical procedure ✅ Realistic expectations ✅ Good general health ✅ Committed to aftercare
Not Ideal
❌ Very thin cheeks (poor results) ❌ Active skin infections ❌ Bleeding disorders ❌ Unrealistic expectations
Natural-Looking Results
Keys to Natural Dimples
Position
- Matches face shape
- Harmonizes with smile
- Appropriate depth
Surgeon Selection
- Experience with dimpleplasty
- Before/after photos
- Understanding of facial aesthetics
FAQ
Q: Is dimple creation permanent? A: Yes, results are permanent once healed.
Q: Will there be visible scars? A: No, the incision is inside the mouth.
Q: How painful is it? A: Mild discomfort for a few days, manageable with OTC pain relief.
Q: Can dimples be removed later? A: Possible but more complex than creation.
Q: Will dimples look natural? A: Yes, after 2-3 months they appear only when smiling.
Q: Can I choose dimple position? A: Yes, position is determined during consultation based on your preferences and face shape.
Q: How soon can I return to work? A: Most return in 2-3 days, though swelling may be visible for 1-2 weeks.
Finding the Right Surgeon
What to Look For
✅ Board-certified plastic surgeon ✅ Experience with dimpleplasty ✅ Before/after gallery ✅ Good reviews from international patients ✅ Clear communication
Questions to Ask
- How many dimpleplasties have you performed?
- Can I see before/after photos?
- What position do you recommend for my face?
- What's included in the price?
Conclusion
Dimple creation is a quick, relatively simple procedure with permanent results. Korean clinics offer this charming enhancement at significantly lower prices than Western countries, with surgeons experienced in creating natural-looking dimples.
Dream of having dimples? Consult with a qualified Seoul plastic surgeon about dimpleplasty.
⚠️ Medical Disclaimer: This article provides general information about dimple creation surgery. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before undergoing any surgical procedure.
Last Updated: January 2025