Chapter 1: The Right Side Struggles

Recently, I found myself dealing with a splinter in my right heel. It seems that misfortunes have a tendency to target my right side, much like bees drawn to nectar. Just before this incident, I had undergone an MRI for my troublesome right knee, which I now need to rely on for my upcoming eye appointment concerning my struggling right eye.

Last year, I faced a frustrating TMJ lock-up on my right side, and just last month, a bone spur unexpectedly emerged from my right clavicle, creating a convenient hook for my tea towel.

What on earth is happening? Am I experiencing uneven aging? While none of these issues are overly serious, the decline of my right side is quite disheartening.

The splinter in my heel was the last straw (though technically, it was a piece of wire). I hobbled over to my laptop and consulted Dr. Google. Is asymmetrical aging even a real phenomenon?

Section 1.1: Understanding Asymmetrical Aging

To my surprise, asymmetrical aging is indeed a recognized concept. Initially, Google displayed images of facial asymmetry, illustrating how one side of a face can differ due to conditions like Bell’s palsy or strokes. Then it showed photos manipulated with aging software, revealing one youthful side and another that looked quite weathered.

Intrigued, I decided to conduct my own experiment with digital aging. I selected a favorite “Before” photo (you can read about my “Glamour shot” here), downloaded an app called Face App, and aged just the right side of my face. The result? Yikes!

TIP: Only attempt this at home if you have a calming drink nearby.

While the digital aging was captivating, my actual face appeared to be aging uniformly (think of a well-aged cheese—imagine a rich Gouda accompanied by a creamy Brie). This left me pondering why my left side seems to flourish while my right is a magnet for ailments.

Subsection 1.1.1: A Possible Explanation

As I delved deeper into research, I stumbled upon a fascinating theory: I might be a human chimera! According to Scientific American, chimeras—individuals with two distinct sets of DNA—can exist. This phenomenon can occur if a fetus absorbs its deceased fraternal twin. Interestingly, those affected often remain unaware of their unique condition.

I promptly diagnosed myself as a human chimera, finding solace in attributing my unfortunate right-side woes to my long-lost troublesome twin! If only she had kept her bad genes to herself instead of dragging me down, I could be thriving!

I can already hear the skeptics: “That’s absurd; chimeras are extremely rare.” Easy for you to say if you’re aging symmetrically! Those of us facing asymmetrical aging are in search of answers, and I believe I’ve found mine. That’s my story, and I’m sticking to it.

Moreover, chimeras may not be as rare as assumed. Just the other day, I came across a cat on Facebook that looked like a chimera. If that’s not a perfect example, I don’t know what is!

Chapter 2: The Science of Face Symmetry

In this video titled "You Can FIX ASYMMETRICAL FACE NATURALLY by making these 5 CHANGES," discover practical advice on how to address facial asymmetry through simple lifestyle adjustments.

The second video, "FIX YOUR FACE ASYMMETRY and WHY IT WORSENS as WE AGE," delves into the reasons behind facial asymmetry and offers solutions to combat its effects as we grow older.

Are you experiencing asymmetrical aging? I'd love to hear your experiences!

Want to read more engaging stories like this or explore writing your own?

Consider giving Medium a try by clicking here.