Navigating the Journey of Facial Asymmetry: A Personal Account
Summary at the end. A word of caution: If this post sparks an idea to experiment with your own facial structure, I must strongly advise against it. What worked for me was a unique set of circumstances and should not be seen as a safe substitute for professional cosmetic procedures. My situation likely stemmed from the use of braces during my adolescence, which I received despite being told they weren't necessary; the desire to fit in led me to follow peer trends. I believe the foundation for a proportional jaw was laid at birth, albeit the orientation got disrupted in my formative years. This narrative emerges from the fact that I struggle to find another instance like mine documented anywhere, making me ponder whether this experience is entirely my own. As a child and through my early teenage years, I had the blessing of a symmetrical face, which imbued me with confidence, allowing me to enjoy looking at family photos without hesitation. However, everything changed dramatically once I entered high school. By the time I reached my final year, the asymmetry became pronounced as the left gonial angle of my jaw jutted out more than the right. This alteration shattered the symmetry of my jaw, giving my face an unwelcome boxy appearance on one side, a fact that deeply troubled me, especially as someone with an obsessive attention to detail. With college approaching and a strong desire to address this asymmetry before meeting new people, I took matters into my own hands. I placed my palm against the pronounced left part of my jaw and pressed inward. Initially, there was no noticeable change, so I escalated the pressure. Suddenly, with a sharp sensation, I realized that my face had adjusted in some way. I glanced in the mirror and discerned an immediate difference. As a fresh high school graduate, I acted impulsively, lacking any real understanding of jaw anatomy. I naively assumed that simply pressing on the protruding area would narrow it and restore symmetry. Surprisingly, my approach did compress the left gonial angle, making my face seem more even. However, a crucial factor had escaped my consideration for years—the jawline and gonial angle are interconnected with soft tissue, including various muscle fibers. In applying pressure, I inadvertently displaced the soft tissue along my jaw, leading to a swollen and uneven appearance in the lower left quadrant of my face. The alignment issues created a grotesque distortion of my previous straight jawline, which became more noticeable and uncomfortable for others to look at. Unsurprisingly, my college experience was marred by immense self-consciousness and frustration regarding my appearance. I struggled with deep feelings of inadequacy, constantly questioning my judgment for causing such an obstacle in life—affecting my social, dating, and professional interactions. To cope, I became overly sensitive to lighting, attempting to mask my flawed side in shadows wherever possible. Despite the pervasive depression, hope lingered that I might one day rectify the damage. Over the next decade, I experimented frequently with exercises aimed at restoring balance to my face, carefully orchestrating maneuvers that wouldn't undo my earlier adjustments. For the first five years, I dedicated countless hours to scrutinizing my face in front of mirrors, obsessively trying various techniques to manipulate my jaw. Convinced a new growth of bone had emerged, I mistakenly focused my efforts on pressing against this perceived accumulation. After thousands of hours of trial and error, I finally began seeing incremental improvements. My jaw appeared slightly more balanced, enough to reduce the coldness I received from others, but still evidently asymmetric. I managed to enter a relationship, but not without reminders from her—and her family—about my facial irregularities. However, I felt somewhat more normal compared to my college years and allowed myself a break from the exhausting pursuit of perfection. That reprieve was short-lived as my return to online dating confronted me with stark reminders of my asymmetry's impact on my romantic prospects. In a fit of desperation, I reignited my determination to fix my face for good this time. A breakthrough moment occurred when I realized the surface area I felt on my jaw was primarily not bone but displaced soft tissue and muscle that had shifted out of alignment. With this newfound awareness, I adjusted my methods to stretch and reposition the soft tissue appropriately. As I refined my approach, I began noticing tangible improvements, guided by auditory cues of popping and cracking that indicated progress being made. Through diligent practice, I learned the precise techniques and methods to manipulate the muscles back into their rightful place. Amazingly, within a year of this revelation, I observed that my once-warped left jawline had returned to a straight form. This transformation astonished me, as I had grown so accustomed to the earlier distortion. The results were nothing short of remarkable. I could finally gaze at my reflection without horror, no longer feeling the need to restrict my hairstyles or avoid bright lighting. The freedom to embrace various styles and colors without fear has altered my self-perception immensely. Many in my life have commented positively on my apparent transformation, and some might even recognize my journey through this narrative. In retrospect, I’ve learned that society judges us harshly based on aspects beyond our control. It's unsettling to think that our attractiveness—often subconsciously evaluated—can shape interactions at all levels, whether in personal relationships or everyday encounters. Summary: I enjoyed a symmetrical face during childhood until puberty and braces distorted the left angle of my jaw. My misguided efforts to self-correct resulted in worse asymmetry due to the displacement of jaw-related soft tissue. It wasn’t until a decade later that I understood how to rectify the soft tissue effectively, leading to significant improvements in my facial symmetry. My social experiences improved dramatically as a result.
Answers (1)
3/29/2025, 8:01:08 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your journey with facial asymmetry and how it has impacted your life. Your experiences highlight the challenges many face regarding self-image and the importance of understanding our bodies.
Key Points:
- Facial Asymmetry Can Evolve: As you've noted, changes during growth, such as those caused by braces, can affect facial structure.
- Self-Correction Risks: Your attempt to manipulate your jaw without professional guidance led to unintended complications. It's essential to understand the body's complex anatomy before attempting any adjustments.
- Importance of Professional Guidance: Achieving facial symmetry through self-directed methods can have risks. Consulting with specialists can provide safer, more effective solutions.
Explanation:
Facial asymmetry can occur for many reasons, including genetics, dental issues, and changes related to growth, such as wearing braces. While it’s understandable to seek ways to improve your appearance, self-manipulation can lead to complications like muscle displacement, creating more asymmetry or other issues, as you experienced. Understanding that the face comprises bone, muscle, and soft tissue is crucial.
Your story illustrates a significant personal journey toward acceptance and the improvements that can occur with informed techniques and professional support.
Next Steps:
-
Seek Professional Evaluation: If you haven't already, consider consulting with a dental specialist, orthodontist, or facial cosmetic surgeon. They can assess your situation comprehensively and guide you on safe, effective methods to improve facial symmetry.
-
Monitor Your Mental Health: As changes to your appearance significantly impacted your self-esteem and social interactions, it might be beneficial to talk with a therapist or counselor. They can help you navigate feelings of inadequacy and self-consciousness.
-
Educate Yourself on Facial Anatomy: If you wish to explore self-care or exercises further, it’s critical to understand how muscle and soft tissue work. Books, reputable online resources, or courses on anatomy can provide valuable insights.
-
Practice Patience and Self-Compassion: Changes to one’s appearance, especially sought through professional means, take time. Be kind to yourself during this process, allowing for growth and change.
Your journey is a reminder of the importance of professional guidance in addressing physical concerns and the significant emotional implications they carry. If you have more questions or need further information, feel free to ask.
Related Questions
Semen Analysis Results: Assessing Low Motility and Vitality — Are They Temporary due to Stress?
Hello everyone, I’m a 36-year-old male and I recently received the results of my first semen analysis. I’m seeking to determine if the findings indicate a significant medical issue or if they are possibly linked to situational factors. Here’s some context that could be relevant: - I experienced considerable stress during the week the test was conducted. - My sleep quality was particularly poor the night before the test. - Since the collection took place at a clinic, I felt high levels of anxiety and minimal arousal. - Additionally, the sensation during ejaculation seemed weaker than what I normally experience. Here are the key results from the analysis: - Volume: 2.3 ml - Concentration: 30.9 million/ml - Total sperm count: approximately 71 million - Morphology: 9% (WHO reference is ≥4%) - Progressive motility: 18% (considered low) - Total motility: 36.7% (on the lower side of normal) - Vitality: 39% (low range) - No infections detected, no agglutination, and low white blood cell count The lab remarked on the presence of asthenozoospermia and necrozoospermia, indicating issues with motility and vitality. I also have some pertinent medical background: - I underwent orchidopexy as a child, resulting in one testicle being somewhat smaller while the other appears normal. - A recent urine analysis yielded normal results. - I am experiencing no pain and have shown no indications of infection. Here are my inquiries: - Is it plausible that acute stress, lack of sleep, and anxiety during the clinic visit could lead to significant reductions in motility and vitality in just one analysis? - Considering the normal sperm count and morphology, does this situation imply that the issues might be more functional or temporary rather than permanent? - Should repeating the semen analysis under more favorable conditions be the next logical step?
Concern Over Cystic Lesions: Seeking Clarification
Greetings, I’m a 23-year-old female recently diagnosed with adenomyosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome following an MRI examination. While I have a scheduled consultation with my doctor in a week, I find myself anxious for clarity on certain findings from the MRI report, which I am sharing below. The report indicates the presence of: - A thicc-walled cystic lesion exhibiting peripheral wall enhancement, approximately 2 by 1.6 cm in size, located in the right ovary, with noted thin internal septation and irregularities in the internal mucosal structure. - A smaller cyst, measuring about 2 cm in diameter, also in the right ovary, displaying thin internal septation. My primary concern regards the thick-walled cystic lesion: could it be benign, or should I be alarmed, indicating a need for further evaluation by my gynecologist? I understand that smaller cysts are generally not a cause for concern, but I wonder if this applies only to those that are uniformly shaped and possess thinner walls. The MRI was performed to evaluate potential endometriosis. A previous transvaginal ultrasound ruled out deep infiltrating endometriosis, prompting the MRI to ensure no abnormalities were overlooked, especially given that my calprotectin level was significantly elevated at over 1000, despite a colonoscopy revealing no signs of inflammation, along with reports of resistance detected externally from the colon suggesting the possibility of endometriosis. While I await my appointment, I would greatly appreciate any insights into these findings. Moreover, the MRI results also highlighted mild pelvic congestion and a small amount of free fluid in the pouch of Douglas (POD). --- Background Health Issues: I experience postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTs) and chronic hypotension.
Can Blood Test Results Be Inaccurate?
Background: 23, Assigned Female at Birth (AFAB) I undergo testosterone cypionate injections on a weekly basis. As a trans man, I have been receiving testosterone therapy for four years. Recently, I switched to a new hormone specialist and underwent blood testing with him. Historically, my testosterone levels have typically fluctuated between 400 to 600 ng/dL. However, the results from my recent test showed a concerning level of only 67 ng/dL. I have been diligent about my injections, although I did miss one month a few months back due to mental health challenges. Is it possible for testosterone levels to fall so drastically after just a month without a shot? I had the test done six days following my latest injection. I'm left wondering if this level drop is plausible or if it could indicate a mistake in the lab results.
Understanding Discrepancies in Celiac Blood Test Results
Hello everyone, I’m a 27-year-old female, standing at 5 feet tall. My medical background includes asthma managed with Ventolin and Symbicort when necessary, alongside seasonal allergies managed with daily Rupall. Recently, I’ve been experiencing gastrointestinal issues, particularly constipation and notable bloating, along with several instances where I suddenly felt a pressing need to use the bathroom, causing intense pain and making me feel faint, clammy, and pale. In consultation with my physician, there was an initial suspicion of IBS or IBD. We conducted both an abdominal ultrasound and an X-ray, but both results were clear, leading my doctor to dismiss those conditions. A blood test revealed that I was iron deficient, with results showing 21 ug/l when the reference level is above 30. My doctor attributed my symptoms to this low iron situation. After taking iron supplements for about three months, my levels only increased slightly to 22. Consequently, my physician recommended intravenous iron treatment. During this time, while consuming gluten, I had further tests done. The results included: - Transglutaminase IGA levels were normal at <0.5 u/ml (with a reference value of <15). - Deamidated gliadin IGG antibodies were elevated at 36.1 u/ml (reference is <15). - Iron levels remained at 22 ug/l. - Vitamin D was on the lower side at 47 nmol/l (with a reference range of 76-250). I also underwent an endoscopy and colonoscopy, both of which returned clear findings. Despite the clear biopsy results and the one abnormal IGG blood test, my doctor firmly believes I have celiac disease rather than non-celiac gluten sensitivity, which he considers to be unfounded. To verify this, he instructed me to refrain from iron supplementation and adhere strictly to a gluten-free diet for a duration of two months. After this gluten-free period, I’ve noticed that my bowel habits have improved significantly, with fewer bloating issues. However, I now feel an overwhelming sense of fatigue, constantly feel cold (with my fingers sometimes turning purple), and experience muscle and joint pain in my arms and legs. Additionally, I have been suffering from frequent migraines and headaches. Upon retesting my blood after two months of a gluten-free diet, the results were as follows: - Transglutaminase IGA remained normal at <0.5 u/ml (reference <15). - Deamidated gliadin IGG antibodies have increased further to 50.1 u/ml (reference <15). - Iron levels have risen to 27 ug/l. - Vitamin D has dropped to 32 nmol/l (reference 76-250). Is there anyone who can provide insight on this confusing situation?
Concerns Over an Incidental Finding in a CT Scan
A 20-year-old female recently underwent a contrast-enhanced CT scan for an unrelated issue, which unexpectedly revealed a small abnormality. Specifically, the scan detected an ovoid lesion in the lower quadrant of her right breast, measuring 14 by 8 mm. The report suggests that this could potentially be a fibroadenoma and recommends further investigation through an ultrasound. The young woman expresses that her anxiety is immense; she describes her fear as overwhelming. Being just 20 years old, she is aware that many lesions in women her age turn out to be fibroadenomas. Yet, her research has unearthed alarming information indicating that a significant number of incidental breast lesions identified in contrast-enhanced CT scans may be cancerous due to their increased vascular supply. This has heightened her worries. An ultrasound is scheduled for Saturday. Given its size, the lesion is classified at a minimum of BI-RADS 3. She is pleading for reassurance that it could simply be a harmless fibroadenoma.