Dimple Piercings Are Exactly What They Sound Like—Here's What to Expect

Facial piercings have surged in popularity over the last decade or so, specifically the dimple piercing. However, it isn't a piercing choice to take lightly. Dimple piercings come with a protracted and involved aftercare process, as well as possible complications. Scarring will likely occur, which for some, is the purpose of the piercing, as the indentation in the cheek from this piercing gives the illusion of dimples or will add more definition to existing ones.

Ahead, board-certified cosmetic dermatologist Dendy Engelman MD, certified piercer, Janeese Brooks, and marketing manager of online jewelry retailer, jewellerybox, Daena Borrowman, offer everything you need to know before getting a dimple piercing.

What Is a Dimple Piercing?

Simply put, a dimple piercing is performed in the cheek area proximate to the parotid duct and gives "the illusion of dimples," says Engelman. "I have also seen these piercings in the lower back at the indentations that are in the skin." Borrowman notes that in many cultures, dimples are a sign of beauty. "This piercing allows you to uniquely emulate the look of dimples," she says, "and add an extra sparkle."

Brooks says that over time, the piercings actually create skin divots, "once the piercing has healed and the jewelry is removed."

"Some people get the piercing because they want the scar," adds Borrowman. You can also choose to keep the jewelry in place. If you ever decide to remove the piercing, the scar will most likely remain, even if you've only had jewelry in a couple of months.

What makes the dimple piercing risky is its location. Not only can it make for a difficult healing time, but its proximity to the parotid duct can make it "super difficult to pierce," explains Borrowman. The parotid duct is responsible for draining saliva in the mouth, and, if damaged, can lead to dehydration, difficulty chewing and swallowing, and an increased risk of cavities, as well as possible infection.

Preparing for a Dimple Piercing

In preparing for your dimple piercing, "avoid blood thinners for two weeks prior to the procedure," advises Engelman. She also says to make sure the skin is extremely clean, without a trace of makeup or skincare product during the procedure itself.

Brooks adds that right before the procedure, give your mouth a "good tooth brushing and rinse with mouthwash." She also suggests eating something beforehand, as the swelling post-procedure will make chewing uncomfortable for several hours. If your teeth have been bothering you or you are due for a filling, a visit to the dentist might be a good idea before getting your piercing.

To avoid rupturing the parotid duct, your piercer will examine your mouth prior to the procedure and mark the duct as well as the spot where you will be pierced. A note about symmetry: your piercer should attempt symmetry by using rulers and a level to gauge, however, perfect symmetry is most likely out of the question. This should definitely be discussed as your piercer marks your face before getting started, especially to see if you are a good candidate for the area being pierced.

Piercings are typically done with a needle. Expect to taste blood, as the piercing is being done on the flesh of your cheek.

Pain and Healing Time

The pain level of the piercing procedure itself is quite tolerable, as Brooks rates it between a four and six on a scale of one to 10. Borrowman says, "Many report it hurts much less than getting [a] cartilage pierced, and the only pain is associated with undergoing two piercings in one sitting."

Our experts agree that many people experience discomfort after the piercing. "The pain for these piercings mostly occurs in the healing process where it is difficult to eat, chew, and talk," explains Brooks. She also says some swelling will probably occur, and it can be uncomfortable, though not painful.

The healing process is extensive, as Engelman explains "It can take months to over a year to heal and often leaves a scar." This timeline varies from person to person, though it should be noted that the first 12 weeks post-procedure require fastidious aftercare.

Aftercare

Post-piercing care is crucial to ensure that you avoid any setbacks. Engelman adds that infection and scarring are common, and to minimize potential infection, she advises you "keep clean inside and outside of the mouth two to three times per day, don't play with the jewelry, and avoid chemicals near the piercing."

To help with soreness and cleanse the area internally, gargle with a DIY saline solution made from 1/2 teaspoon of non-iodized sea salt and 8 oz. of distilled water. Some other helpful precautions include cleaning the outside of the piercing with antibacterial soap. When you're done cleaning the area, pat it dry with a clean towel and try your best to keep the area cool and arid. Also, avoid turning the jewelry—this is an antiquated tip that doesn't often serve the piercing site well and could instead cause irritation.

Swelling can be alleviated with an ice pack and should subside within a week. If you notice any blood, pus, yellow discharge, or an increase in swelling after a few days, this might signal an infection and you should consult your doctor. If you suspect any damage has been done to your parotid duct, seek immediate medical care.

Cost of a Dimple Piercing

The cost of these piercings varies by studio, typically starting at $60. "Most places do not perform these piercings regularly as anatomy is not well suited for them and the healing process is extensive," says Brooks, referencing the fact that the piercer must be knowledgeable about the exact anatomy of the cheek in order to avoid the parotid ducts. Be sure your piercer has a specialty piercing license and ask to see a portfolio of past healed piercings. Each state has protocols to follow when it comes to body modification procedures, which can be found on their Department of Health website.

Side Effects

As aforementioned, side effects of a dimple piercing may include damage to the parotid gland or duct. Signs of damage include dry mouth, pus, a foul taste in the mouth, face pain, and fever. Swelling around the jaw or neck might also be a symptom of damage, and you should seek the care of your doctor.

You also want to minimize the potential of less severe infections due to your new piercing. "Make sure not to tongue at your piercings," advises Brooks. "This is important and difficult not to do. Also, be careful not to bite down on the initial length."

The Best Jewelry for a Dimple Piercing

When it comes to choosing jewelry for your dimple piercing, implant-grade stainless steel or titanium is Engelman's choice.

Borrowman recommends you start out with jewelry that will accommodate the swelling process. "The initial piercing will either be a straight barbell, (approximately 1-inch) or stud," she says. "However, once healed, the jewelry shopping can begin. One of the greatest things about cheek piercings is the fun you can have with style choice. You can keep it simple with a bead or ball stud or go more extravagant with a sparkling gemstone or even a charm." Bear in mind, Brooks advises, that a ring is never suitable for this type of piercing.

Piercers will most likely always be responsible for changing out dimple piercing jewelry, at the very least, for the first year after the piercing site is fully healed. If you are unsure about doing it yourself, go back to your piercer and they will do it for you. Since this area of the mouth heals quickly, the same may be true for your piercing, if left open for too long.

Ask your piercer about the different kinds of backings to put on the inside of your cheeks. Depending on the inside of your mouth and the placement of your teeth, you might end up getting a different backing for each side of your mouth. Flat discs are the most common backings. Be sure to consult with your dentist to make sure your new jewelry isn't causing damage to your teeth or gums.