Almost everyone has some degree of asymmetry on their face
But some cases are more noticeable than others. An asymmetrical face, or lopsided face, can be the result from variations in the size, shape, or position of facial features through genetics, injury or illness. Facial symmetry; think large eyes, smooth skin, and full lips are all examples of such ‘beauty’ markers of health. It makes sense that we would be attracted to qualities that signal health because, as a species, reproducing with a healthy mate provides us with the greatest opportunity to survive. Unfortunately, present lifestyles and modern dentistry can commonly sabotage both our health and our looks.
A craniofacial health coach can work with you if you are dealing with facial asymmetry, offering support and guidance to enhance your overall well-being.
Causes of an asymmetrical face
Jaw imbalances are one of the most common causes of facial asymmetry. The condition often occurs when your jawbone grows unevenly, resulting in a visibly unbalanced face. In some more serious cases, a jaw imbalance may lead to complications with chewing or speaking clearly. It is a condition in which the left and right sides of your face are not the same and whilst some degree of facial asymmetry is normal, severe asymmetrical features can be a concern.
An asymmetrical face may have one eye orbit located higher than the other since the roof of your mouth is not level. As a result, each eye’s retina will get visual information at a slightly different time. Together with the eye muscles, the retina (which acts like a film at the back of your eye) tries to bring one image into sharp focus. Normally, this happens automatically and quickly enough that you don’t notice. When you have vertical heterophoria, however, your eyes must work much harder to produce a unified image. The additional exertion may lead to fatigue and dizziness.
How to fix an asymmetrical face
You may have become a chronic head tilter if your eyes aren’t completely level as your brain subconsciously tries to realign your binocular vision. Over time, this may lead to neck tension or pain and an imbalance of your spine. Correct tongue posture and a levelling of the roof of your mouth are critical to levelling your eye orbits for overall body health and well-being. Facial exercises can help with this process.
Here are some exercises that can be performed to strengthen the muscles in your face and in turn improve your appearance:
Eyebrow Raises
Placing your fingers just above your eyebrows, apply slight pressure and through resisting this pressure, raise your brows. Hold for a few seconds then repeat to strengthen the muscles and promote a more balanced, symmetrical expression.
Cheek Lifts
Firstly, with your lips closed, smile wide and then place your index fingers on the corners of your mouth and gently lift your cheeks towards your eyes. Hold for a few seconds and repeat several times to tone this area.
Jawline Exercises
Whilst applying slight pressure with your index and middle fingers on your chin, try opening your mouth whilst resisting the pressure from your fingers. Hold for a few seconds then repeat to enhance facial symmetry and toning the muscles in the area.
Consistency is always key when performing these exercises for facial symmetry, so practice often to maximise their benefits. Ultimately, if you’re wondering how to fix a lopsided face, speak to a craniofacial health coach such as Katrina.
