Those subtle, symmetrical indentations just above your buttocks—often called “dimples of Venus”—are more than just a beauty mark. While they’re frequently admired in art, fashion, and fitness circles, they also have a clear anatomical origin. And for most people, they’re completely normal.
But it’s important to know the difference between harmless dimples and rare signs that warrant medical attention.
What Are “Dimples of Venus”?Anatomical name: Posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) dimples
Location: Just above the buttock crease, on either side of the lower spine
Cause: Skin tethered to the pelvic bone by strong ligaments—visible when body fat is low or musculature is defined
Fun fact: Named after Venus, the Roman goddess of love, these dimples were celebrated in Renaissance art as symbols of fertility, grace, and vitality.
Why They’re Usually HarmlessFor the vast majority of adults, dimples of Venus are:
Genetic—you’re born with the predisposition
Not caused by exercise, posture, or lifestyle
Not linked to pain, dysfunction, or health issues
More visible in lean or athletic individuals—but can appear at any size
Many people notice them more after weight loss or core strengthening—but their presence doesn’t indicate fitness level or health status.
Are There Any Benefits?
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