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There’s nothing uncommon about an asymmetrical jawline, but for some, it can be a feature that’s hard to look past. If you’ve ever stood frustrated in front of a mirror wondering why your chin isn’t quite aligned to the center of your face, you’re not alone. And while it isn't usually a serious condition, there’s nothing wrong with simply wanting to improve your facial symmetry.
This guide will discuss what an asymmetrical jawline is, what causes it, common treatment options and whether it's possible to even out an asymmetrical jawline naturally.
What is an asymmetrical jawline?
No one’s face is perfectly symmetrical, but some people’s features, and particularly their jawline, may be slightly more off-center than others. Also called a misaligned jaw, an asymmetrical jawline is a condition in which the chin is uneven with the rest of the face. An asymmetrical jawline can sometimes cause people insecurity, but most live with this condition without any serious implications. It is, however, important to note that in some cases this condition can cause pain or difficulty with chewing and speaking.
So, what genetic and lifestyle factors contribute to an asymmetrical jawline?
What causes an asymmetrical jawline?
A misaligned jawline can be caused by a number of factors to do with your genetics, health and way of living. Here are seven causes of an asymmetrical jawline.
Genetics
An asymmetrical jawline is sometimes a matter of genetics. If other members of your family have facial misalignments such as uneven lips, it increases your likelihood of also having facial irregularities.
In addition, conditions such as cleft lip and palate and vascular disorders are genetic health conditions that can lead to asymmetrical features.
Lifestyle
Another cause of an asymmetrical jawline is your lifestyle habits. For instance, if you have a habit of sleeping on your belly or with your face against a pillow, this can cause misalignment. Additionally, poor posture or resting your face against your hand continuously can also lead to misalignment.
Injury
If you've experienced trauma or injury to your face as a child or even in adulthood, this can lead to jawline asymmetry.
Smoking
Many people may not realize it, but smoking can lead to asymmetrical features. This is because smoking exposes your face to toxins which are correlated with facial misalignments.
Torticollis
Also called twisted neck, this condition refers to the abnormal positioning of your neck muscles. Torticollis can sometimes occur in the womb, resulting in facial asymmetry.
Bell's Palsy
While most people slowly develop facial asymmetry due to genetic and behavioral factors, sudden facial asymmetry can be a sign of a more serious condition.
Bell's Palsy is a paralysis of facial nerves, which causes new or sudden onset weakness in the muscles on one side of the face. This condition can occur after pregnancy or a viral infection but is usually temporary.
Stroke
Another serious condition that can cause an asymmetrical jawline is stroke. It's important to note that sudden facial drooping is a sign of a stroke. If your smile suddenly becomes uneven, or you experience numbness on one side of your face, it's important that you seek medical attention immediately. Other symptoms of a stroke might include arm numbness, weakness and difficulty speaking.
Common medical treatment options for an asymmetrical jawline
An asymmetrical jawline usually doesn't require medical attention. However, for people finding their self-esteem impacted by it, treatment options are available. Here are two common medical treatment options for an asymmetrical jawline.
- Fillers: Fillers help to contour the face via the injection of a gel. The needle is inserted into the jaw to provide volume on the side that is lacking. This results in improved jawline symmetry. Fillers can cost anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.
- Facial Implants: If you’re after something that’s more permanent than fillers, implants may be a good option for you A facial implant is often used for those who are unhappy with their cheeks or chin. They are made of materials such as silicon, metals, plastics, gels and protein.
How to even out an asymmetrical jawline naturally
Even if you're unhappy with your asymmetrical jawline, you may prefer to avoid undergoing medical treatment in order to correct it. While surgery or fillers can be an effective treatment option, there's no guarantee that you won't experience misalignment again over time. The good news is that medical treatment is not the only option to improve your jawline.
There are other effective ways to make your jawline more symmetrical that are less costly and invasive. Here are three ways in which you can improve your asymmetrical jawline naturally.
Improve your posture
Similar to the domino effect, other misalignments in your body can contribute to facial asymmetry. With that said, it's important to start by improving your posture. Make sure to always sit with your spine erect and shoulders even and avoid slouching at your desk. Instead, practice sitting all the way back in your chair.
Facial stretches
Another way that you can improve the symmetry of your jawline is through facial stretches. A facial stretch can refresh and align the facial muscles for a noticeable improvement in symmetry.
You can perform facial stretches by elongating the face while looking up and pulling the upper lip over the lower lip. Then smile widely with your face in the elongated position.
Cheek toning
If your jaw imbalance is extending to your cheek, you can try cheek toning. Press your upper cheek with three fingers from each hand. Use your fingers to push the muscles towards the jawline while smiling. As you smile, the pressure against your fingers will manipulate the cheek tissues, which can improve symmetry.
