What Causes Chin Dimpling?
Chin Dimpling is most commonly associated with the mentalis muscle. This muscle, located at the centre of the chin, is responsible for movements such as tightening the chin or raising the lower lip. Some individuals have stronger mentalis muscle activity than others, and dimpling becomes more noticeable during certain facial expressions.
There are several factors, however, that may cause chin dimpling, including:
- changes in skin elasticities
- repeated facial movements
- natural facial anatomy
- strong or overactive chin (mentalis) muscles
- loss or redistribution of underlying fat in the chin area
- muscle development within the chin region
- changes in connective tissue and skin attachments
These factors may influence skin behaviour over the underlying structures of the chin and contribute to the dimpling or indentations seen in some individuals.
Treatments For Chin Dimpling
There is more than one way to treat Chin Dimpling, depending on the individual. Addressing muscle activity is common, but at other times it may also be necessary to address volume or structural factors.
Muscle Relaxant Treatment: This treatment involves administering a prescription-only muscle relaxant medication to the mentalis muscle, located in the centre of the chin. When it contracts strongly, the mentalis can create a regular skin texture or small indentations, often described as Chin Dimpling. By temporarily reducing the signals between the nerves and muscles, we can limit the strength of the muscle contractions.
The volume of muscle relaxant medication required varies between individuals, with factors such as mentalis muscle strength, facial anatomy, amount of movement, previous treatments and individual treatment goals all influencing the dosage.
We typically recommend a review appointment approximately two weeks after the initial treatment to assess the response and consider further treatment.
Muscle Relaxant + Volumising Treatment: Sometimes, Chin Dimpling is caused by more than muscle activity. Structural changes within the skin and underlying tissues may also contribute to dimpling. In these cases, we may treat the area with a combination of Muscle Relaxant therapy and facial Volumising treatment.
Volumising products are made of naturally occurring sugar molecules that attract and retain water within the tissues. These products have a gel -like consistency and are placed into the tissues at specific depths. They can help support surrounding structures and influence how the skin sits over the underlying tissue.
Various volumising formulations are selected for treatment based on the treatment area and clinical assessment. They include:
- Light volumising products: Last approx. 3 to 6 months
- Mid-density products: Last approx. 3 to 6 months
- More structured products: Last approx. 18 to 24 months
Tissue Release: In some patients, the chin skin may be tightly tethered to deeper structures. In these instances, we may use a cannula to release or separate these tissues. This allows volumising product to be placed more evenly within the tissue layers.
Post-Treatment Follow-Up
After your treatment, you’ll be given a treatment record outlining the products used, areas treated and written post-treatment care instructions. We may also ask you to submit clear images of your treated area within a specific timeframe to help monitor your recovery.
This allows us to assess your healing in the early stages and ensures your response to treatment remains within expected parameters. These images can be sent via email.
We will also provide you with after-hours contact details in case you need support outside of clinic hours.
Forearm Prick Test
Individuals being prescribed a Volumising treatment who have never been exposed to a dissolving agent may be recommended a precautionary prick test before scheduling a procedure. This involves placing a small amount of dissolving agent on the forearm, which is then observed for any unexpected response.
A dissolving agent is used when Volumising treatment requires correction or to manage a complication. By performing a prick test, we can reduce the risk of allergic reaction and further consider whether Volumising treatment is appropriate.
When Will I See Results?
The time it takes to see visible results will depend on the type of treatment you’ve had.
After Muscle Relaxant treatment, results are gradual. Full effects are usually visible approximately two weeks after treatment. After regular treatments, the muscle may gradually weaken (atrophy), leading to continued changes in the appearance of the chin area.
After Volumising treatment, changes will often be seen immediately after the procedure. Bruising, swelling, and redness after treatment are common and may temporarily obscure the final results. These effects typically resolve after one or two weeks as the product integrates into the tissues. Therefore, the outcome is usually best appreciated several weeks after treatment once the tissues have fully settled.
How Long Do Results Last?
The muscle relaxant used for chin dimpling is designed to last three to six months or longer; however, this varies by individual. This medication wears off slowly, with the muscles gradually regaining normal function. At this point, repeat treatment may be considered if you’d like to maintain the results.
Comfort During Treatment
The amount of discomfort experienced can vary depending on the procedure performed. To maintain optimal comfort during your procedure, we apply a topical anaesthetic to the skin approximately 15 minutes before Muscle Relaxant treatment and up to one hour before Volumising treatment.
Volumising treatments also contain a local anaesthetic in the gel, which can provide additional comfort during the procedure. Additionally, we often use ice to help with comfort and minimise the chances of swelling and bruising.
What to Expect Post-Treatment
The appearance of your treated area will depend on the type of procedure you’ve had. Some individuals experience swelling, redness, tenderness or bruising, particularly if they are prone to these reactions.
Post-treatment responses varied significantly from person to person. They may occur immediately after treatment or develop slowly over the following days.
During your initial consultation, once a treatment plan has been established, we’ll discuss your expected healing process and typical recovery timeline.
Returning to Activities
Downtime after treatment varies, depending on the type of procedure you have had and how your body responds. You’ll be given guidance on what to expect after treatment and when you can return to normal activities.
We typically recommend avoiding any important events within a week after treatment, as you may experience bruising, redness, or swelling that may take a little time to settle.
Cost of Treatment
The cost of your chin dimpling treatment varies and depends on the type of treatment you’ve had, the complexity of your concern and the amount of product required.
After your initial consultation and facial assessment, your prescribing doctor and treating cosmetic nurse will discuss your recommended treatment plan and give you an individualised cost estimate so you can make an informed decision before proceeding.
If you require a Muscle Relaxant and Volumising treatment, the overall cost will likely differ from that of Muscle Relaxant treatment alone, as additional products and techniques are involved.
Potential Side-Effects & Ongoing Consultation
All non-surgical cosmetic procedures carry risks. Although many individuals receive treatment without issue, it is vital to understand that side effects can occur and should not be overlooked.
Possible side effects and complications may include bruising, infection, swelling, changes in facial movement, disruption of blood flow (vascular compromise), eyelid drooping (ptosis), neurological conditions such as Ramsay Hunt syndrome, and, in very rare situations, visual disturbance or loss of vision.
During your consultation, before proceeding with treatment, these risks will be carefully discussed with you by both your prescribing doctor and treating cosmetic nurse. These discussions will help you to make an informed decision while also supporting early recognition and management if complications arise.
For more information, please see our Possible Risks and Complications page.
