What exactly is chin dimpling?
Chin dimpling is caused by excessive activity of the muscle in the chin, the mentalis muscle. This muscle lies directly under the skin of the chin and contracts when you make certain facial expressions, such as frowning or pursing your lips. In some people this muscle is naturally very active or tense, causing the skin of the chin to show small pits and wrinkles, even at rest.
The texture then looks a little like orange peel. This effect can become more prominent over the years, for example because the skin becomes thinner and less elastic.
What causes chin dimpling?
In most cases, chin dimpling is genetically determined or caused by muscle activity. As you get older, the skin becomes thinner and loses firmness, making underlying muscle tension more visible. The muscle, as it were, pulls the skin inwards with every contraction.
Teeth grinding or excessive clenching of the jaw muscles can also indirectly contribute to the development of dimpling on the chin. People with strong facial expressions or a lot of muscle tension in the lower part of the face are more often affected by this irregularity.
Is chin dimpling harmful?
No, chin dimpling is not dangerous or medically problematic. It is purely a cosmetic phenomenon. Even so, it can affect how someone sees themselves, especially when the irregularities are visible at rest and give the face a tense or aged appearance.
For people who want a calm, relaxed facial expression, treating chin dimpling can therefore be a worthwhile procedure.
How is chin dimpling treated?
The most effective way to reduce chin dimpling is with botulinum toxin. By temporarily relaxing the muscle activity in the chin, the tension that causes the wrinkles is weakened. This makes the skin texture smoother and the wrinkled effect disappears.
The treatment is subtle and quick to perform. A small amount of botox is injected into the mentalis muscle, which usually causes little discomfort. You will see the effect within a few days, and it builds up further over the first two weeks.
The result is softer, smoother skin on the chin and a more relaxed facial appearance.
How long does the effect remain visible?
The effect of botox for chin dimpling remains visible for three to four months on average. During that period the muscle stays relaxed, so the skin looks smoother. After that, the muscle activity gradually returns.
With repeated treatments, muscle activity can decrease, so the effect lasts longer or the intensity of the dimpling is reduced. During a follow-up appointment, we can look together at when it is time for a new treatment.
Is the treatment safe?
The treatment of chin dimpling is safe, provided it is performed by an experienced and skilled doctor. Because the chin is a small and precise area, it is important that the dosage and placement are carefully tailored to your face.
At Kliniek het Bolwerk we always work with BIG-registered plastic surgeons who specialise in treating the facial muscles. We look at the balance of the whole face and only treat if the result offers clear added value.
Who is this treatment suitable for?
A treatment for chin dimpling is suitable for people who:
- experience a wrinkled or bumpy chin texture
- are bothered by the appearance of the chin during or after facial expressions
- would like a softer, more relaxed facial expression
- are looking for a subtle improvement of the skin without surgery
During a no-obligation consultation, we discuss your wishes and look together at whether this treatment suits your face and appearance.
What can you expect after the treatment?
The treatment itself usually takes no longer than ten minutes. You can carry on with your day straight afterwards. It is advisable not to lie down for the first four hours and not to touch or massage the treated area. It is also sensible to avoid intensive exertion and heat (such as a sauna or sunbed) for 24 hours.
The effect builds up gradually in the days after the treatment and is fully visible after two weeks. You will notice that the chin looks calmer, with a smoother skin texture.
Finally
Chin dimpling is a common phenomenon in which the skin of the chin looks ridged or bumpy due to muscle tension. Although it is harmless, some people find it bothersome. With a small and safe botox treatment, this irregularity can be effectively softened, with a natural result.
At Kliniek het Bolwerk, personal advice is central. We always look at what best suits your face, facial expressions and wishes. We only go ahead with treatment if it genuinely adds to your appearance.
Curious whether a treatment for chin dimpling is right for you? Feel free to book a no-obligation consultation. We take the time to look together at what will give you the most attractive and natural result.
