Those small indentations just above your buttocks—often symmetrical and located near the top of the glutes—are commonly called “dimples of Venus.” While they’re frequently admired for their aesthetic appeal (especially in art and fashion), they also have anatomical significance—and in rare cases, can signal underlying health issues.Let’s explore what they really are, why they appear, and when to pay attention.
🔬 What Are the “Dimples of Venus”?
- Anatomical name: Sacral dimples or posterior superior iliac spine (PSIS) dimples.
- Location: Just above the crease of the buttocks, aligned with the sacroiliac (SI) joints.
- Cause: They form where ligaments connect the pelvis to the sacrum (the triangular bone at the base of your spine). In people with lower body fat and well-defined musculature, these indentations become more visible.
💡 Fun fact: Named after the Roman goddess of love, Venus—Renaissance artists often highlighted them as a symbol of beauty and fertility.
💡 Fun fact: Named after the Roman goddess of love, Venus—Renaissance artists often highlighted them as a symbol of beauty and fertility.
✅ Why They’re Usually Harmless (and Even Desirable)
For most people, these dimples are:

