If You Have These Two “Dimples” on Your Lower Back, Here’s What They Actually Mean

Those two small dimples above your hips are usually a normal anatomical feature—not a sign of illness. Here's what experts say.

Many people have noticed two small indentations on the lower back, just above the buttocks. These symmetrical dimples are commonly called "Dimples of Venus" in women, while the same feature in men is sometimes referred to as "Dimples of Apollo."

Because they are often associated with beauty and fitness on social media, many people wonder whether these dimples have a special meaning or indicate something about their health. The good news is that, in most cases, they are simply a normal part of human anatomy.

What Are the Dimples of Venus?

The Dimples of Venus are small, naturally occurring indentations located on the lower back, near the posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS)—the bony landmarks where the pelvis meets the lower spine.

These dimples form because the skin is attached to deeper connective tissues by short ligaments. Where these ligaments pull the skin inward, a visible indentation appears.

They are considered a normal anatomical variation and are not a medical condition.

Why Do Some People Have Them?

Several factors influence whether these dimples are visible.

Genetics plays the biggest role. Some people are simply born with the connective tissue arrangement that creates these indentations, while others are not.

Body composition also matters. People with lower amounts of body fat often have more noticeable dimples because there is less soft tissue covering the area.

Finally, connective tissue and posture can slightly affect how visible the dimples appear. Standing upright or engaging the lower back muscles may make them more prominent.

Are They a Sign of Good Health?

Despite many internet claims, there is no scientific evidence that having Dimples of Venus automatically means someone is healthier, more fertile, or physically stronger.

Likewise, not having these dimples does not indicate poor health.

They are simply an inherited anatomical characteristic, much like attached versus detached earlobes or natural cheek dimples.

Can You Develop Them Through Exercise?

Exercise cannot create true Dimples of Venus if your anatomy does not naturally include them.

However, reducing body fat and strengthening the muscles of the lower back and glutes may make existing dimples easier to see.

Fitness routines can improve muscle definition, but they cannot change the underlying ligament structure responsible for these indentations.

When Should You See a Doctor?

The dimples themselves are harmless.

However, if you notice:

• Pain directly over the dimples.
• Swelling or redness.
• Drainage from the skin.
• A newly developed indentation accompanied by other symptoms.

you should consult a healthcare professional, as these signs may indicate an unrelated medical condition requiring evaluation.

The Bottom Line

The Dimples of Venus are a normal anatomical feature caused by the way the skin connects to the pelvis through connective tissue. Their appearance is mainly determined by genetics and body composition—not by disease, attractiveness, or overall health.

Whether you have them or not, they are simply one of many natural variations in human anatomy.