Why Is One Side of My Face Fatter? Causes and How to Fix It
You’re probably not the only one who’s ever stood in front of the mirror and thought, Why is one side of my face fatter? Facial asymmetry is extremely common and is, in the overwhelming majority of instances, entirely normal; however, noticeable facial imbalance – particularly with one side of the face appearing fuller or more developed than the other – may create warranted concerns. The most important thing is to know what causes facial asymmetry and when a procedure will help.
Why Is One Side of My Face Fatter Than the Other?
It is normal to wonder why one half of your face appears different (flatter or fuller) than the other. However, all human faces will have some form of asymmetry. The asymmetry is part of normal human anatomy and may include small variations in bone structure, distribution of fat, and the amount of muscle development.
Some common reasons for one side of your face being different from the other include: Why is one side of my face fatter is a common concern and can be linked to several underlying factors.
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Natural Asymmetry of the Face
Many people have one cheek a little fuller than the other or one side of their jawline defined more than the other. This becomes more noticeable in photos or certain lighting.
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Sleep Position
Another way one cheek or side of the jaw may appear different than the other is due to sleeping position. If you have a consistent sleep position (mainly on one side), this could result in temporary fluid retention or mild long-term changes to tissue.
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Muscles Developed from Dominance
Chewing more often on one side can also develop the dominant side’s facial muscles; the same can be said for using only one side of the face habitually as well.
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Distribution of Fat in the Face
A significant factor in how fat is distributed in the face has to do with genetics and how the fat pads are placed in the face. In this manner, the fat distribution will affect how full the face appears after looking at both sides.
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Facial Hypertrophy or Structural Differences
In rare instances, underlying bone or muscle enlargement (hypertrophy) can lead to disproportionate amounts of asymmetry and an asymmetrical face.
If you wonder, why is one side of my face fatter than the other side? An assessment by a professional will provide clarification as to whether the source of the protrusion is structural, muscular, or soft tissue-related.
Why Is One Side of My Face Fatter and How to Fix It?
When patients discover the reason why is one side of my face fatter, they often wonder what they can do about it.
There are different types of treatments depending on the cause of the issue:
- Dermal fillers may be used in the case of volume loss on one side to create equal volume on both sides.
- Botox may be used in instances where one side has overactive muscles or muscle hypertrophy, as the Botox can, over time, decrease the size of the muscle and give a more symmetrical appearance.
- Facial liposuction or fat reduction procedures may be helpful to remove excess volume on one side due to fat deposits.
- Surgical options can be done for severe craniofacial asymmetry; however, a consultation with an experienced surgeon is necessary prior to determining a surgical solution.
- If you feel that your sleeping habits and chewing behaviours contribute to your face being asymmetrical, then by changing those behaviours, you will be less likely to have asymmetrical features develop further.
Before deciding upon any corrective procedures, a personal consultation with a professional should be done.
Also Read – How do I fix an Asymmetrical Face?
When Is an Asymmetrical Face a Concern?
An asymmetric face is typically a cosmetic issue, not a health issue. However, you should seek a doctor’s advice if:
- Your asymmetry developed quickly or recently
- If you have any type of jaw pain or dysfunction
- If your face has any weakness or numbness
- The asymmetry is continuing to get worse
You should seek medical attention, as there may be neurological or muscular problems responsible for sudden changes in facial appearance.
How Dr. Juan Carlos Can Help
Dr. Juan Carlos conducts an all-encompassing assessment of the face in order to find reasons for asymmetries and the best treatment. Whether someone is looking to treat a soft tissue imbalance, excessive muscle development, or an irregularity in their facial structure, Dr. Carlos will use a carefully tailored approach that improves the symmetry of the face while keeping the natural beauty of the individual.
Contemporary aesthetic techniques are designed to achieve balance instead of perfection. It is the intent of the treatment to provide subtle improvements to your confidence level while maintaining a natural look.
When to Consider Professional Evaluation
If you have ever looked in the mirror and thought, “Why does one side of my face look bigger than the other?” then know that some degree of asymmetry is usually normal. If your asymmetry has become a source of reduced self-esteem or continues to get worse over time, a professional evaluation may determine if there is a legitimate reason for the changes, as well as provide recommendations for corrective treatment options (if applicable).
Understanding why one side of your face looks more prominent than the other is the first step in determining whether treatment is right for you. Cosmetic procedures today are highly effective, and often, can be performed to result in very subtle improvements to your facial base symmetry and proportion without compromising the integrity of your face or causing exaggerated appearance changes to the rest of your appearance