Facial asymmetry changes over time

The Age Game: How Facial Asymmetry Changes Over Time

Nico Varela in Health & Wellness August 2025 • 4 min read.

"Uncover the subtle ways your face shifts as you age, and what it means for your looks and potential cosmetic tweaks."

We all strive for a balanced, symmetrical face, often seen as a key element of beauty. But the truth is, perfect symmetry is rare, and a touch of asymmetry gives each face its unique character. However, this natural asymmetry tends to increase as we age, leading to noticeable changes in our appearance.

Groundbreaking research using three-dimensional photogrammetry has shed light on this fascinating process. This technology allows for incredibly precise and rapid facial measurements, enabling scientists to quantify how our faces change over time. Through these measurements, researchers have uncovered a clear link between aging and increasing facial asymmetry.

This article will explore the key findings of this research, breaking down the science in an easy-to-understand way. We'll delve into the causes of age-related facial asymmetry, discuss its implications for cosmetic procedures, and offer insights into maintaining a balanced and youthful appearance.

The Science of Shifting Symmetry: How Your Face Evolves

A recent study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery used 3D photogrammetry to analyze the facial symmetry of 191 volunteers across a wide age range (from 0.3 to 88 years). The results revealed a significant positive correlation between age and facial asymmetry. In other words, the older you get, the more asymmetrical your face becomes.

The researchers measured facial symmetry by identifying the 'plane of maximum symmetry' and calculating the root-mean-square deviation (RMSD) – essentially, the average distance between corresponding points on each side of the face. The higher the RMSD, the greater the asymmetry.

The average RMSD in the study group ranged from 0.4 to 1.3 mm.
For every decade of life, facial asymmetry increased by approximately 0.06 mm.
Asymmetry wasn't uniform across the face; the middle and lower thirds showed a greater increase in asymmetry compared to the upper third.

This increase in asymmetry is likely due to a combination of factors, including: asymmetric skeletal remodeling, where bones on either side of the face change at different rates; differential deflation and descent of soft tissues, leading to uneven sagging; and the cumulative effects of muscle use and habits over time. These subtle yet persistent processes gradually alter the balance of our facial features.

Rebalancing Act: What This Means for Cosmetic Enhancement

Understanding the natural progression of facial asymmetry is invaluable for plastic surgeons and anyone considering cosmetic procedures. Recognizing that asymmetry increases with age allows for a more nuanced and age-appropriate approach to facial rejuvenation.

Rather than striving for perfect symmetry – which can appear artificial – surgeons can use this knowledge to create results that enhance natural beauty and harmonize with the individual's age. This might involve focusing on specific areas, such as the mid or lower face, to address the most prominent asymmetries.

Future research will undoubtedly delve deeper into the specific factors that contribute to facial asymmetry over time. By combining these findings with advanced imaging technologies and personalized treatment plans, we can develop even more effective strategies for maintaining a balanced, youthful, and naturally beautiful appearance as we age.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.1097/prs.0000000000004831, Alternate LINK

Title: The Relationship Between Age And Facial Asymmetry

Subject: Surgery

Journal: Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Authors: Olivia E. Linden, Jun Kit He, Clinton S. Morrison, Stephen R. Sullivan, Helena O. B. Taylor

Published: 2018-11-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is facial asymmetry, and what does it mean as we get older?

Facial asymmetry is the condition where the two sides of the face are not identical. While some degree of asymmetry is normal, this study highlights that it tends to increase with age. This means that as you get older, the differences between the left and right sides of your face become more pronounced. Modern cosmetic techniques can address this issue.

What specific technology was used to measure facial changes, and how does it work?

The study used 3D photogrammetry, a technology that allows for precise facial measurements. It measures the average distance between corresponding points on each side of the face, this is known as the root-mean-square deviation (RMSD). By quantifying this deviation, researchers could track changes in facial symmetry over time. The higher the RMSD, the greater the facial asymmetry. This technology has revolutionized the way we understand how faces change as we age.

How does age impact facial asymmetry based on the study?

The research shows that facial asymmetry increases with age. For every decade of life, facial asymmetry increased by approximately 0.06 mm, the middle and lower thirds showed a greater increase in asymmetry compared to the upper third. The study examined volunteers ranging from 0.3 to 88 years old, revealing a significant positive correlation between age and facial asymmetry.

What causes the increase in facial asymmetry as we age?

Several factors contribute to age-related facial asymmetry. These include asymmetric skeletal remodeling, where bones change at different rates on each side of the face; differential deflation and descent of soft tissues, leading to uneven sagging; and the cumulative effects of muscle use and habits over time. These processes gradually alter the balance of facial features, leading to increased asymmetry.

Why is understanding facial asymmetry important for cosmetic procedures?

Understanding age-related facial asymmetry is important for cosmetic procedures. Plastic surgeons can use this knowledge to tailor treatments that address age-related changes and create a more balanced, youthful appearance. This nuanced approach allows for effective facial rejuvenation that considers the specific asymmetries that develop over time. This helps create the best and most natural results possible.