While some sources suggest a correlation between sleeping position and facial asymmetry, the evidence is inconclusive and often contradictory. There's no definitive scientific consensus establishing side sleeping as a direct cause of facial asymmetry.
Conflicting Opinions and Evidence
Several sources claim that consistently sleeping on one side can contribute to facial asymmetry due to pressure on one side of the face, potentially leading to wrinkles and tissue flattening (e.g., SpaMedica, Belleza Latina, Mewing App). However, other research contradicts this, stating that sleep position does not influence facial symmetry (e.g., Quora, Dr. Karanr on TikTok). One study even found no dominance of one side of the face in photographic analysis (NCBI). A study focusing on eyelids and eyebrows did however show a correlation between preferred sleep side and asymmetry in those features (PubMed).
Potential Contributing Factors
It is important to note that facial asymmetry has multiple causes. Genetics, bone structure, muscle imbalances, and even injuries can all contribute. While sleeping position might exacerbate existing asymmetries or contribute to subtle changes over a very long period, it is unlikely to be the sole or primary cause. The pressure from sleeping on one side may create temporary changes like wrinkles, but these are unlikely to cause lasting significant asymmetry.
Conclusion
In summary, while some sources suggest a potential link between side sleeping and minor facial asymmetry, the scientific evidence is not conclusive. Many factors contribute to facial symmetry, and side sleeping alone is unlikely to be the primary cause of significant asymmetry.
