Is Face Shape Permanent?
No, face shape is not entirely permanent. While certain underlying bone structures remain relatively stable throughout adulthood, several factors can significantly alter its appearance over time.
Several factors contribute to changes in face shape:
- Age: As we age, collagen decreases, fat volume diminishes, bone density changes, and skin elasticity reduces. These natural processes lead to visible alterations in facial contours. (Yes, face shapes can change with age)
- Dental Procedures: Procedures like wisdom teeth removal usually don't cause significant permanent changes. However, extensive dental work can lead to permanent facial alterations. (The Effects of Wisdom Teeth Removal on Face Shape) Missing teeth, on the other hand, lead to bone deterioration and permanent changes in facial structure. (How Do Missing Teeth Change Your Face Shape?)
- Cosmetic Procedures: Surgical procedures like buccal fat removal permanently change the face shape by removing buccal fat pads. These pads don't regenerate. (Buccal Fat Removal | Johns Hopkins Medicine) Facial implants offer a permanent, customizable solution for reshaping the face. (Change Your Face Shape With Implants | Ambay Plastic Surgery) Facelifts result in permanent incision scars, and although they alter the face shape, the results may change over time. (Face-lift - Mayo Clinic)
- Weight Changes: Significant weight fluctuations can affect the distribution of facial fat, impacting the overall appearance of the face shape.
- Palatal Expanders: These devices can slightly change face shape during treatment, but the effects aren't always permanent. (Do palatal expanders change your face? If it does, is it permanent ...)
- Mewing: While proponents claim mewing can alter the jawline and face shape, scientific evidence supporting this is limited. (Mewing & Jawline Exercises)
Permanent Aspects of Face Shape
While the overall appearance of face shape can change, the underlying bone structure is largely permanent in adulthood. However, even bone structure can be altered through surgical intervention. For example, the position, shape, and color of permanent upper central incisors contribute significantly to the aesthetics of the smile. (Aesthetic Value of the Relationship between the Shapes of the Face ...)
