What should I do if my face is asymmetrical?

Facial asymmetry primarily results from habitual improper sleeping positions—especially side-sleeping. Consistently sleeping on one side can compress the facial muscles on that side, leading to reduced muscle volume and ultimately causing noticeable asymmetry between the two sides of the face. Facial asymmetry not only affects overall aesthetic appearance but may also indicate underlying medical conditions; therefore, appropriate treatment should be sought promptly, and unhealthy sleeping habits must be corrected. So, what should one do about bilateral facial asymmetry? Below, we address this question in detail.

What to Do About Bilateral Facial Asymmetry

If you notice asymmetry between the left and right sides of your face, it is advisable to consult an oral and maxillofacial specialist promptly. Through clinical examination and dental radiography (e.g., panoramic X-rays or cone-beam CT), the clinician can assess the underlying cause and determine an appropriate treatment plan. If asymmetry stems from malaligned teeth, orthodontic treatment at a dental orthodontics clinic is recommended.

If asymmetry arises from developmental jaw deformities (e.g., mandibular or maxillary hypoplasia or asymmetry), corrective orthognathic surgery performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon is typically required. If asymmetry is caused by tumors in the oral and maxillofacial region, surgical tumor resection is necessary. Note that mild facial asymmetry is common and normal—even in healthy individuals—as perfect bilateral symmetry is rare; thus, no intervention is needed for minor asymmetry.

What Causes Facial Asymmetry?

1. Developmental Facial Deformities

During growth and development, delayed or impaired development of one side of the face may result in visible asymmetry in adulthood—typically manifesting as one side appearing fuller or more prominent than the other. This includes physiologic (mild, non-pathologic) asymmetry, which is usually insignificant, often hereditary, and commonly observed across the general population. In contrast, certain congenital conditions—such as hemifacial microsomia—can cause severe unilateral underdevelopment of facial structures, frequently accompanied by auricular deformities. Such cases generally require staged reconstructive interventions beginning around age six.

2. Trauma-Induced Facial Asymmetry

Trauma sustained during activities such as basketball or other physical pursuits may lead to facial asymmetry. Severe trauma can cause necrosis or scarring of facial skin and subcutaneous fat, or result in untreated or malreduced facial bone fractures. Improper healing may then produce persistent facial asymmetry. With increasing traffic-related injuries, the incidence of trauma-induced facial deformities has been rising.

3. Post-Tumor-Resection Facial Deformity

Following surgical removal of facial tumors, if concurrent reconstructive or plastic surgery is not performed, tissue defects or displacement of facial structures/organs may occur, resulting in noticeable facial deformity.

The above outlines key approaches to managing bilateral facial asymmetry. We hope this information proves helpful to you.