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The Asymmetrical Face

A common concern that I hear as a facial plastic surgeon is that one side of the face is not exactly the same as the other. People come in asking “is it normal for my face to be asymmetric?” I begin by telling them that asymmetry is the norm and not the exception. Asymmetry, to an extent, is beautiful and in recent literature we are learning that it is more attractive to have asymmetries. In fact, when you mirror image to create a perfectly symmetric face most people find it disturbing to the eye.

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    Now bear in mind that, as with most things in life, there is an acceptable range for facial asymmetry. Falling outside of this window may lead to someone being perceived as less attractive or desirable. The goal then is to correct the feature so that the face as a whole is once again within the goal range. The objective is NOT to achieve perfection, partially because this is often unattainable and partially because perfect symmetry is less ideal than having slight asymmetry.

    The good news is that there are several options for correcting prominent asymmetry. Neurotoxin, such as Botox, can be used to temporarily adjust brow position or one’s smile. Filler, such as Restylane, can temporarily improve volume in the cheeks or correct a deep wrinkle. A silicone implant in the temple, cheek, or chin can permanently restore symmetry. Various surgical corrections are also possible to alter the brows, eyelids, nasal tip, and other facial features using minimally invasive techniques.

    I often find that it is easier to see asymmetry in the midline structures, such as the nose and lips, and these are often the most fruitful targets for restoring symmetry and balance to the face. Remember, we all have some differences between the left and right sides of our faces and bodies.

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    Feel Confident Shampoo and Hair Conditioner
    Dr. Gary Linkov, MD

    Dr. Linkov is double board-certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery. A native of New York, Dr. Linkov graduated as a salutatorian from Cornell University and received his Medical Degree at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons. Dr. Linkov conducted advanced head and neck cancer research at the world-renowned Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Dr. Linkov is a former Adjunct Assistant Professor at New York University (NYU), where he taught Rhinoplasty.

    Dr. Linkov is a top-rated facial plastic surgeon in New York who specializes in lip lift and hair transplant surgery. He has been named one of the top 5 lip lift surgeons in the United States, is listed in the prestigious SuperDoctors New York™ registry, and has appeared on the Dr. Oz Show, where he discussed the state-of-the-art hair transplantation procedure.

    Page Updated on Mar 25, 2026 by  Dr. Gary Linkov  (Facial Plastic Surgeon) of  City Facial Plastics in New York.
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