Why do some people have dimples?

Is there anyone who doesn’t admire dimples? Dimples are considered by many to be one of the attractive features regarding beauty. That small dip that appears on cheek when one smiles gives him or her an aura of childlike innocence and it is regarded to be sweet. But would anyone believe if they were told that dimple is actually a genetic defect?

Alternatively known as gelasin, a dimple is a small indentation on the flesh. Scientists had considered it to be a dominant genetic trait till recently. That is, if the parents have dimples, the children are supposed to inherit it. However, that theory is out of favour now. Researchers say that there is no strong evidence to suggest that dimple is dominant trait but is an irregular one. If both parents have dimples, the children have 50%-100% chance to inherit them. Dimples can appear on both cheeks, or on one. Some have dimples on birth, while others develop later.

There are two kinds of dimples: cheek dimples and chin dimples. While the cheek dimples make their presence when the person makes a facial expression, the latter is a constant one. The dimple on chin is generated from a cleft in the bone of chin.

The cheek dimple is actually a deformity on the facial muscle. There are two different views on the cause of it. One is that dimple is formed by shortened muscles around the mouth. When the face moves, it draws tightly to form a dent on the skin. However, it is also caused by structural variations in the muscle known as zygomaticus major. It is usually a large muscle and its bifid structure causes dimples.

The formation of dimple takes place during the embryonic development. There are also temporary dimples, caused by excessive fat on the face. It is a sign of unhealthy diet, and will disappear with the loss of that fat.

Many people concerned with beauty have longing for that small dent on the face. The belief that one can create a dimple is widespread, underscored by the many tips and tricks going around both online and offline. If that is not enough, there was a dimple machine invented in 1936, by Isabella Gilbert from New York which is regarded now as one of the most ridiculous inventions ever. There is no way one can make a permanent dimple on the cheek so far, but that doesn’t discourage people from trying. Many opt for surgery and piercing, but those don’t exactly produce natural dimples.

Are dimples considered attractive?

If you were to ask people whether they found dimples attractive, you would get mixed answers. Some might say that dimples give a person a more approachable and youthful look. Dimples, without any doubt, are associated with beauty, and in some cultures, it is considered good luck as well.

However, the research found that men preferred women with similar facial traits in terms of hair color, eye color, and chin dimples. It was also found that it is most likely that people with dimples preferred others with dimples as well. Furthermore, research has also suggested that the presence of dimples may help communicate in a better way by displaying expressions with more intensity.

Can I have cheek dimples?

The obsession of some people for dimples has progressed to the point where they undergo a surgery known as dimpleplasty to get dimples. During dimpleplasty, a small incision is made at the location where the client wants the dimple to be. Then, a small amount of tissue is removed. A small stitch known as a sling is passed through the skin and muscle, bringing them together. As a result, a dimple is formed.

In the end, cheek dimples may be a result of a structural difference in one of the muscles located in your face. They may be passed on as a genetic trait, but you cannot be sure of the chances. You are unlikely to find someone who does not admire dimples. People who want cheek dimples can undergo surgery, but it is better to feel comfortable in your own skin.