About
Asymmetry
What is an
Asymmetrical Face?
Facial asymmetry of varying degrees is present in all individuals. Some people have almost imperceptible asymmetry, whereas others have gross, severe deformities. The significance of the asymmetry is often in the eye of the beholder. A facial asymmetry that may be significant to one person may seem inconsequential to someone else.
Significant and sometimes severe facial asymmetries are common in the population. In diagnosing and treating facial asymmetry, health care providers should be aware of the patient’s concerns and be able to diagnose as well as determine the required treatment for predictable and stable correction.
When is
Facial Asymmetry a Problem?
For some people, their facial asymmetry only affects their appearance and can be treated with cosmetic procedures. However, facial asymmetry can be a real problem if it causes functional issues. Sometimes facial asymmetry doesn’t even cause an issue, but is a side effect of an undiagnosed issue, such as obstructive sleep apnea or temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJD).
Some facial trauma can result in not only facial asymmetry, but a condition known as TMJ ankylosis. Ankylosis is fusion of the TMJ to the jaw bones, which causes decreased range of motion and stiffening of the jaws. If a person is still going through puberty, then this kind of condition could cause an undergrowth of the mandible, or lower jaw.
