Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 1, 2026
04:04
Lateral Molar Approach-Driven Transoral Endoscopic Procedure for Benign Infratemporal Fossa Tumor Resection
Published on: August 15, 2025
685
Transoral buccinator-pexy (TBP).
Nicholas I Jones1, Gloria Gamboa, Kirit Bhatt
1From the Department of Surgery, Section of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia.
Annals of Plastic Surgery
|April 3, 2014
Summary
This study introduces transoral buccinator-pexy, a safe surgical technique to create aesthetically pleasing cheek dimples. The procedure, performed via a transoral approach, yields consistent and natural-looking results for facial aesthetics.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Aesthetic Medicine
- Facial Anatomy
Background:
- Cheek dimples are natural facial indentations that enhance aesthetics.
- Creating artificial dimples can improve midface appearance.
- A novel surgical technique is presented for dimple creation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a novel transoral surgical technique for creating malar dimples.
- To assess the safety and efficacy of the transoral buccinator-pexy procedure.
- To enhance midface aesthetics through the creation of natural-looking cheek dimples.
Main Methods:
- The transoral buccinator-pexy involves a transoral approach, 1.5-2 cm superior to a specific anatomical point.
- A 4-mm punch biopsy or small incision is made in the buccal mucosa for tissue excision.
- A nonabsorbable suture is used to create the dimple by engaging the dermis and buccinator muscle.
Main Results:
- The procedure was successfully performed without complications in the patient series.
- Cadaveric dissection identified key anatomical landmarks and established a "zone of safety."
- Follow-up averaged 18 months, demonstrating consistent and aesthetically pleasing dimple creation.
Conclusions:
- Transoral buccinator-pexy effectively creates aesthetically pleasing cheek dimples, visible with animation.
- The technique is safe, simple, and can be performed as an in-office procedure.
- Careful identification of anatomical structures, such as Stensen duct, is crucial for safe execution.
