Has anyone had success with fixing scarring on the face that looks like a dimple? (Photos)

Question

I had an accident that left a large, unsightly dimple. I had a fat transfer to the area, and now it is more asymmetrical and more bulging. Next, the surgeon suggested he cut into the scar (creating another scar) and place some fascia there. I was looking at surgeons who did dimple surgery and was thinking I could get reverse dimple surgery, although my “dimple” is high on the cheek.

Nelson Lee Novick, MD · Answer

Subcision, which I have been using since 1994, works well for elevating and smoothing all kinds of indented (depressed, sunken atrophic) scars from all causes, including trauma, as in this case. You might consider exploring this option. I certainly share your concern that surgery to treat the dimple might simply result in more scarring. Although the subcision is likely to result in the elevating the dimple, the problem will still remain with the bulging and asymmetry from the fat transfer, since, unlike injectable hyaluronic acid volumizing fillers,  fat is not easily to dissolve. If the asymmetry left by the fat is more troubling then the bulge, a small amount of volumizing filler might be added to the opposite side to establish greater symmetry. Make sure that you consult with a board certified aesthetic physician with expertise in subcision and with filler injections. Best of luck.

Kayla Humenansky, DO · Answer

This is a challenging situation. The skin is scared to the underlying facial musculature. Fat transfer is a great option but should be performed with subcision for optimal results. Subcision could be performed by using a small cannula beneath the skin to release the skin from the underlying muscle. Unfortunately, this is not always 100% successful. Placing some fascia would also be an option in hopes to prevent the skin from reattaching to the underlying muscle. Sometimes this can be done through an incision in front of your ear and not directly on your cheek. This is a challenging case, don't get discouraged. I would recommend continuing to work your surgeon to find an solution you're both comfortable with.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

dermal grafting can be done but you could try subcision and filler first like bellafill this may not be able to be full improved. start at home dermarolling. Best, Dr. Emer.

Has anyone had success with fixing scarring on the face that looks like a dimple? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Dimple Surgery

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Has anyone had success with fixing scarring on the face that looks like a dimple? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Dimple Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.