Asymmetry in the eye area - Is this something only surgery can fix? If so, what type? (Photo)

Question

Hi, I’m 24F and I have asymmetry in my eyes that has really bothered me. I don’t know how to fix it and want some insight on why my eye does this and how to fix it. I have had this problem for at least 2 years.

Mark Beaty, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. It’s important to know that some degree of asymmetry is completely normal—every face has it, and often one side is naturally slightly larger or shaped differently than the other. Unfortunately, there aren’t reliable non-surgical options to fully correct eyelid asymmetry.

If you’d like to explore treatment, consulting with a facial plastic surgeon or oculoplastic surgeon would be the best next step. They can discuss surgical options that may help improve the balance of your upper eyelids. That said, it’s essential to approach this with realistic expectations. No procedure can create perfect symmetry, and pursuing absolute balance can sometimes lead to unnecessary disappointment. The goal should be improvement, not perfection. I hope you find this helpful!

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

To make an assessment for any part of the face, we need to see it in context with the rest of the face.
All people have facial asymmetry.
Facial aesthetics is primarily determined by facial skeletal structure.
This is also the basis for Facial asymmetry.
During embryological development, the two sides of the face develop independently from each other and eventually fuse in the midline.
The human brain is accustomed to seeing facial symmetry as being normal.
In your case, the left eye in your picture sits higher than the right side.
This means that the eye socket on the left side is high relative to the right eye socket.
Usually, the brow will also show asymmetry that correlates with the relationship between the eyes.
There is no appropriate treatment for this since it’s based on your skull structure.
While it’s possible to move the eye socket, this type of surgery is usually only done for significant deformity.
Most plastic surgeons, see strings through a soft tissue perspective in regards to assessment and treatment options.
Because asymmetry is based on bone structure, treatment is complex and quite involved.
Your friends and family also have facial asymmetry. All people do.
You probably don’t think of them as having a symmetry.
The brain doesn’t see asymmetry in other people unless it is severe.
I recommend you accept the way you look as being normal and appropriate.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Asymmetry in the eye area - Is this something only surgery can fix? If so, what type? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Asymmetry in the eye area - Is this something only surgery can fix? If so, what type? (Photo)

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Eyelid Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.