Facial asymmetry describes when traits do not perfectly mirror one another on both sides of a face. This can occur due to multiple factors, such as aging, trauma, and lifestyle choices.
Having traits that do not perfectly mirror one another on both sides of a face is called asymmetry. Having an asymmetrical face is a typical human feature. Almost everyone has some degree of facial asymmetry.
Mild facial asymmetry is very common in the general population and is considered a typical biological variation rather than a disorder.
Some people may have more noticeable asymmetry than others. Factors such as aging, trauma, and lifestyle choices, such as smoking or sun exposure, may contribute toward asymmetry. If a person has always had asymmetrical features, there is no cause for concern.
However, new and noticeable facial asymmetry may be a sign of a serious underlying condition, such as stroke or Bell’s palsy.
Continue reading to learn more about some potential causes of an asymmetrical face, as well as treatments and home remedies.
Possible causes of facial asymmetry may include:
Genetics
Sometimes an asymmetrical face is the result of an individual’s genetics. People with asymmetrical features may notice that other members of their family have similar characteristics.
Some genetic health conditions, such as cleft lip and palate, may cause facial asymmetry.
Aging
Imaging studies, such as one 2018 study involving almost
While bones stop growing at puberty, cartilage does not. As a result, a person’s ears and nose will keep growing, leading to changes in the face. Soft tissues in the face will also begin to relax.
Lifestyle choices
Some lifestyle choices can contribute towards an asymmetrical face. For example, smoking exposes a face to toxins and can cause vascular problems.
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays can also cause an asymmetrical face. Sun damage rarely occurs evenly across the face and may affect one side of the face more than the other.
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Other lifestyle factors that may contribute to asymmetry include:
- sleeping on the stomach or with the face against a pillow
- having poor posture
- resting a face against a person’s hand
Trauma
Injuries to the face during childhood or in adulthood may cause the appearance of asymmetry.
Trauma such as a broken nose, a deep cut, or being involved in a vehicle collision can cause damage to the face.
Dental work
Using dentures or getting dental veneers may change the contours of a face.
Having a tooth extraction may also change the way the muscles in a face appear. In fact, according to the previously mentioned
Stroke
Facial drooping may be a sign of a stroke, which is a medical emergency. Strokes can occur when there is reduced blood flow to the brain, and people can develop sudden facial asymmetry due to this.
Other symptoms of stroke may include:
- difficulty speaking
- sudden severe headache
- arm or leg numbness or weakness
If a person’s smile is suddenly uneven, or they experience numbness on one side of their face, they should seek immediate medical care.
Bell’s palsy
Bell’s palsy is a paralysis of facial nerves, usually causing one side of the face to droop. The asymmetry is due to one side of a face being less able or unable to move.
The cause is currently unknown, but it may have links to trauma, nerve damage, or complications of a viral infection.
A 2024 cross-sectional
When researchers assessed patients’ radiographic examination, they found that prevalence rose above 50%. This could suggest that asymmetry is more common than people think, and many people may not even realize that they have asymmetrical features.
An asymmetrical face does not usually require any treatment or medical intervention. This is especially true if the asymmetry is due to genetics or aging. In many cases, asymmetrical features may even be a defining feature or make a face unique.
If someone chooses to explore cosmetic procedures for personal reasons related to their facial features, they can discuss options with a qualified professional.
Fillers
Inserting fillers into a face by way of injection may help asymmetry caused by tissue imbalance or muscle weakness. However, their effects are not permanent and will eventually fade.
Botox is a popular nonsurgical option. People have Botox injections to raise eyebrows that may not be even or prevent wrinkles that only appear on one side of the face. Botox is a muscle relaxant comprised of toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. Its effects typically last for
Facial implants
If a person has an asymmetric face due to their skeletal structure, facial implants may be an option to consider.
Surgeons use implants to give the appearance of balance in a face. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, surgeons carry out this procedure to enhance the cheeks, chin, and jaw.
Facial implants are meant to be permanent and usually contain:
- silicone
- gels
- plastics
- metals
- proteins
Rhinoplasty
Also known as a nose reshaping, or “nose job,” a corrective rhinoplasty can give a nose a symmetrical appearance. Surgeons typically carry out this procedure to do one of the following:
- help a person breathe
- correct a broken nose that set incorrectly
- change the appearance of a person’s nose if they do not like the shape
The results of a rhinoplasty are usually permanent. However, some clinicians may advise that a nose may begin to regain some of its previous shape over time.
An asymmetrical face is a common occurrence and often does not indicate any underlying health issues. However, for some people, asymmetrical features may lead to a lack of confidence or low self-esteem.
People with minor asymmetric features may be able to use home remedies to give their face a more symmetrical appearance. Some options include:
Makeup
For those who wish to experiment with makeup techniques, contouring and highlighting can be used as creative tools to play with visual balance.
Certain hairstyling techniques can also draw attention away from a face.
Eyelid tape
Uneven eyelids are a common occurrence. Using eyelid tape or eyelid glue on a sagging eyelid can lift the skin and give the appearance of symmetry.
Can facial exercises help?
Some may claim that evidence online suggests that certain facial exercises may help a face look youthful and more symmetrical. However, there is no clinical research to prove this is the case.
The thinking behind these exercises is that they may help with facial asymmetry caused by muscle weakness or uneven muscle tone.
Having an asymmetrical face is both normal and common. Often it is the result of genetics, aging, or lifestyle habits.
Facial asymmetry is a typical human variation, and many people consider it part of what makes them distinct.
In some cases, an underlying medical condition may cause facial asymmetry. Treating the condition may help to reduce the appearance of asymmetry.
If the asymmetry appeared suddenly or is causing discomfort or health problems, it may be a good idea to seek medical attention. Anyone concerned about their appearance can speak to their doctor if they wish.
People have varied feelings about their facial features. Some may explore cosmetic options or home techniques if they personally prefer, while others are comfortable embracing their natural asymmetry.