How Can I Fix My Right Facial Asymmetry?

Q: Dr. Eppley, My facial asymmetry is something that has bothered me for quite some time now. The left side of my face is clearly larger than the right, and my right eye appears to be farther back than the left. I believe I may have a minor case of hemifacial microsomia. It is especially noticeable when my head is tilted up. Could a custom-fitted jaw implant on the right (smaller) side + fat grafting help to minimize the asymmetry? Also, are there any options to reduce the asymmetry in my eyes? 

I have attached some photos if you wouldn’t mind taking a look.

Thank you,

A: Thank you for your inquiry and sending all of your pictures. You have a classic right facial hypoplasia which affects all of the structures of your right face to varying degrees. The jawline, orbit and cheek bones are the most affected. Custom implants for the jawline, orbital floor/rim and cheek are the most effective treatment approach. Fat grafting in a yung lean person is almost never ofany benefit because it survives poorly.Tye greatest limitations are in the eye itself as it is able to be raised a bit but can not be brought forward. (it is important to remember that the eyeball is attached to the optic nerve so trying to pull it forward has obvious risks)  

But beyond these general concepts the first place to start is by getting a 3D CT scan of your where the skeletal differences between the two sides of your face will be clearly seen and which serves as the basis for custom facial implant designs to treat the asymmetry.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis Indiana