Cheeks Piercing

What is the Cheeks Piercing?

The cheeks piercing, also known as a cheek piercing or dimple piercing, passes through the cheek at the spot where natural dimples would sit. It creates the charming effect of permanent dimples and gives a smile a very special radiance. At our studio, cheeks piercings are always done as a pair, as they only achieve their full effect when symmetrical.

This piercing is one of the more demanding facial piercings, as the cheek area is anatomically complex. Important salivary glands and nerve pathways run through here, which is why precise placement by an experienced piercer is absolutely essential. At XS Piercing Basel, we bring the necessary experience and care to place this piercing safely and aesthetically.

Piercing Procedure

The preparation for a cheeks piercing is more thorough than for most other piercings. We begin with a careful analysis of your facial anatomy. We determine the optimal position that is both aesthetically harmonious and safely avoids the anatomical structures (salivary glands, facial nerves).

Both sides are marked together and discussed with you in the mirror. Symmetry is particularly important here. On request, we offer a local anaesthetic to make the procedure as comfortable as possible. Both piercings are done one after the other in a single session.

As initial jewellery, we use longer labret studs made of titanium (ASTM F136) to accommodate the expected swelling. Once the swelling subsides, these are replaced with shorter studs.

Special Considerations for Cheeks Piercings

The cheeks piercing differs significantly from other facial piercings in several ways:

• Saliva flow: In the first few weeks after piercing, there may be increased saliva leakage through the piercing channels. This is completely normal and subsides during healing as the channels narrow and the wound closes.
• Significant swelling: The cheek area tends to swell more than other piercing sites. In the first 3 to 5 days, the cheeks may be noticeably swollen. Cooling and ibuprofen help.
• Permanent dimple effect: Even after removing the jewellery, a small indentation (dimple) usually remains visible, as scar tissue forms in the piercing channel. This effect is intentional, but you should be aware of it before deciding on this piercing.
• Always as a pair: We only pierce cheeks piercings as a pair. A single cheek piercing would look asymmetrical and unnatural.

Healing & Aftercare

The healing time is 8 to 12 weeks and progresses in several phases. The cheeks piercing requires more patience and attention than most other piercings:

• External care: Clean twice daily with sterile saline solution. Keep the area clean and dry, especially when saliva leaks.
• Internal care: Rinse with alcohol-free mouthwash after every meal. Carefully remove food residue from the inside of the piercing.
• Cooling: Cool regularly in the first few days to reduce swelling. Ice cubes in the mouth or cool compresses from outside.
• Jewellery change: After the swelling subsides (approximately 2 to 3 weeks), the longer initial studs must be replaced with shorter ones. This change is important to prevent the jewellery from accidentally growing into the tissue.

Please note

The cheeks piercing is one of the most demanding facial piercings. It leaves permanent indentations (dimples) in the cheeks even after removal. Please get thorough advice before deciding on it. We are happy to take the time to answer all your questions.

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