What Are the Best Practices Post-Dimple Creation Surgery?

Follow Your Surgeon’s Post-Op Instructions

The most important step in ensuring a successful recovery is to follow the personalized aftercare instructions given by your surgeon. These instructions are tailored to your specific procedure and may vary based on individual factors. Be sure to attend all follow-up appointments and ask your surgeon any questions if you’re unsure about any part of the recovery process.

Stay in Communication

If you notice anything unusual or feel uncertain about your recovery, don't hesitate to contact your surgeon. They will guide you through any concerns and provide the necessary support during your recovery period.

Manage Swelling and Bruising

It’s normal to experience some swelling and bruising after dimple creation surgery. However, these side effects are typically temporary and will subside with proper care.

Cold Compresses

For the first 48 hours, apply cold compresses to your cheeks to help reduce swelling. Wrap ice or a cold pack in a clean cloth and gently apply it to the swollen areas for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Be sure to give your skin breaks between applications to avoid overcooling the area.

Elevate Your Head

While resting or sleeping, keep your head elevated to reduce swelling. Use extra pillows to prop up your head slightly, helping fluid drain away from your face and minimizing puffiness.

Avoid Heat Exposure

During the initial recovery period, avoid exposing your face to direct sunlight or excessive heat, which can increase swelling and discomfort. If you need to go outdoors, wear a wide-brimmed hat or apply sunscreen (after the first few days of recovery).

Maintain Oral Hygiene

Because dimple creation surgery involves an incision inside the cheek, oral hygiene is crucial to prevent infection and ensure the healing of the surgical site.

Gentle Brushing

For the first few days after surgery, be gentle when brushing your teeth, particularly near the incision site. Avoid touching or disturbing the surgical area directly. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and avoid harsh movements that could irritate the healing tissue.

Antiseptic Mouthwash

Your surgeon may recommend using an antimicrobial or antiseptic mouthwash to help cleanse the surgical area and reduce the risk of infection. Follow their instructions on how often to use the mouthwash.

Saltwater Rinse

After the initial recovery period, you may also rinse with a mild saltwater solution to soothe your mouth and promote healing. Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gently rinse without forcefully swishing it around.

Eat Soft and Gentle Foods

Post-surgery, your mouth may feel sore or swollen, making it difficult to chew hard foods. To minimize discomfort and avoid placing unnecessary strain on the surgical site, it’s best to stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods during the first few days of recovery.

Soft Food Diet

Consume soft foods like mashed potatoes, soup, yogurt, smoothies, and applesauce. Avoid foods that require heavy chewing, such as meat, nuts, and crunchy vegetables, as they may irritate or injure the surgical area.

Avoid Spicy or Acidic Foods

Spicy or acidic foods can irritate the surgical area and may cause discomfort. It’s best to avoid citrus fruits, hot sauces, and other acidic foods during the first few days of recovery to prevent any unnecessary irritation.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water is essential for your healing process. Staying hydrated helps your body recover faster and supports healthy skin healing. However, avoid drinking through a straw, as the suction can create pressure on the incision site.

Minimize Facial Movements

During the early recovery phase, excessive facial expressions such as laughing, smiling, or talking too much can place strain on the surgical area. It’s important to minimize these activities to avoid putting unnecessary pressure on the stitches and newly healed tissue.

Avoid Excessive Smiling

While it’s tempting to show off your new dimples, try to avoid smiling too broadly in the first few days after surgery. A gentle smile is fine, but excessive facial movements could potentially disturb the healing process.

Limit Talking

Try to avoid talking for extended periods or overexerting your facial muscles in the first few days following surgery. Giving your face a break will help minimize irritation and promote a faster healing process.

Rest and Recover

Adequate rest is essential for your body to heal properly after dimple creation surgery. It’s important to allow yourself time to recover fully and not rush back into your usual activities too quickly.

Rest During the First Few Days

During the first few days, take time to rest and avoid strenuous physical activity. Sleep is crucial for your body’s healing process, so ensure you are getting enough rest to support recovery.

Gradually Resume Activities

Once your surgeon gives you the go-ahead, you can begin to resume your normal activities. However, avoid engaging in any physical exercise or activities that could increase your heart rate or put pressure on your face, such as weightlifting, heavy cardio, or intense facial movements.

Protect the Incision Area

Since the incisions for dimple creation surgery are made inside your cheek, they’re less visible, but they still require protection to avoid complications.

Avoid Touching the Surgical Site

Refrain from touching the surgical site with unwashed hands to reduce the risk of infection. Be mindful not to disturb the incision while eating, brushing, or during other daily activities.

Keep the Area Clean

If your surgeon has provided specific instructions for cleaning the incision site, be sure to follow them closely. Keeping the surgical site clean and free from bacteria is crucial for preventing infections.

Wear a Soft Bandage if Recommended

In some cases, your surgeon may advise using a soft bandage or dressing to protect the surgical site for the first few days. If this is recommended, ensure that it is changed as instructed to maintain hygiene.

Monitor for Complications

While dimple creation surgery is a relatively low-risk procedure, it’s still important to be vigilant about any signs of complications. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term issues.

Signs of Infection

Watch for symptoms such as increased redness, swelling, pain, or discharge from the surgical site. If you experience these symptoms, contact your surgeon immediately for guidance.

Excessive Bleeding

Some bleeding is normal during the first 24 to 48 hours, but if the bleeding doesn’t subside or seems excessive, seek medical attention. This can indicate a complication that requires immediate treatment.

Abnormal Pain or Discomfort

While mild discomfort is expected after surgery, severe pain that doesn't improve with pain medication could be a sign of an issue. If this occurs, reach out to your surgeon for evaluation.

Be Patient with the Healing Process

Healing from dimple creation surgery takes time, and it’s important to have realistic expectations about the recovery process.

Initial Swelling and Bruising

The swelling and bruising you experience in the first few days will gradually improve. It may take up to a few weeks for the swelling to fully subside and the dimples to settle into their final appearance.

Settling of Dimples

It’s important to remember that your dimples may initially appear more pronounced or different in shape than you expected. Over time, as the swelling reduces and the tissue heals, the dimples will become more natural and integrated into your smile.

Conclusion

Proper aftercare following dimple creation surgery is essential to ensuring a smooth recovery and achieving the desired results. By following these best practices—such as adhering to your surgeon’s instructions, managing swelling, maintaining good oral hygiene, and minimizing strain on the surgical site—you can help your body heal quickly and effectively. With patience and proper care, you can enjoy the enhanced beauty of your smile for years to come.