How can I achieve more facial symmetry? (Photo)

Question

I’m 32 and interested in how I can have a more symmetrical face. I am open to surgical options. My eyes and cheeks and even smile is not very symmetrical and would like to make improvements.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It is completely understandable to want better facial symmetry, especially when you notice differences around the eyes, cheeks, or smile. The first thing I would emphasize is that some degree of facial asymmetry is completely normal. In fact, virtually everyone has some natural differences between the two sides of the face, and these differences can become more noticeable in photographs or when we focus closely on them.

The best approach depends on what is causing the asymmetry. For example, differences around the eyes may relate to the eyelids, brow position, orbital anatomy, or the amount of soft tissue on each side. Cheek asymmetry can sometimes be improved with carefully placed dermal filler or fat grafting, while a difference in the smile may be related to muscle activity, facial structure, or even the way the teeth and jaw are positioned.

For some patients, Botox can actually be useful for subtle asymmetry, particularly when one side of the face has stronger muscle activity than the other. In other cases, fillers or fat transfer can restore volume selectively to one side. These minimally invasive options can sometimes create a meaningful improvement without surgery.

Surgical correction is also an option when there is a more significant structural difference. Depending on the underlying anatomy, procedures such as blepharoplasty, brow or eyelid surgery, facial fat grafting, or facial skeletal/jaw procedures may be considered. However, surgery should be based on the specific anatomical cause rather than simply trying to make both sides look mathematically identical.

I also like to set realistic expectations with facial asymmetry. The goal is usually better balance and harmony rather than perfect symmetry. Trying to make both sides exactly identical can sometimes produce an unnatural appearance.

A careful facial assessment, ideally looking at you both at rest and while smiling or making different expressions, is important before deciding on treatment. The most effective plan is often a combination of small, targeted adjustments rather than one major procedure.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Morpheus 8 is a non-invasive skin and soft tissue tightening treatment that is consistently amazing in our patients. We use the Morpheus to exact fractional induced RF into the skin or tissue in order to tighten collagen and stimulate contraction of the tissue. For acne scars, it is quite useful to build collagen in patients who have atrophic scars but is not very productive for ice-pick scars which require TCA Cross. For tissue tightening, Morpheus is ideal for the face and neck and we often combine it with CO2 laser or Ultherapy to further enhance results. Chemical peels and skin resurfacing should be done at least 5 to 7 days after, but can be performed earlier, depending on treatment severity. Avoid exfoliating skin treatments before Morpheus and expect a period of 2-4 weeks for skin contraction to set in.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian 
Realself100 Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

We are all asymmetrical to some degree, which is considered normal.  Botox and fillers are two great tools we can use to give better symmetry to our face.  Fillers can be used to add volume and soften deep lines.  Botox can provide a conservative brow lift, improve the jawline, as well as address dynamic lines and wrinkles.  I encourage you to visit with an expert injector near you for an evaluation.

Leonard Grossman, MD · Answer

There is not a single individual on this planet who has a symmetric face. Symmetrical faces simply do not exist unless you go to a wax museum, where the most beautiful people that we know look weird and almost alien, simply because of their symmetry. The amount of asymmetry that you have in your face is completely normal and is seen in every individual, I would not do anything whatsoever or you will mess up your appearance. I hope this helps and good luck from New York City Plastic Surgery.

How can I achieve more facial symmetry? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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