Exploring Fluctuating Asymmetry: Understanding the Differences in Features of the Same Person

Have you ever observed how obsessed we are with symmetry? From our home décor to our facial floor we want everything to be in perfect sync. But, symmetry is a rare gift! Most of us flaunt a fluctuating asymmetry.

In some a microscopic glance can identify the asymmetry. For others, it is the most prominent feature on the face!

The difference in eyes or the eyebrows. ears or wrists is visible. But those with fluctuating breasts or testicles it is more of a private affair. No matter what the difference is, asymmetry bugs people all the time.

Many such patients have knocked my clinic to ask for a natural alternative.

Those blessed with good finances opt for cosmetic enhancements. While others have no other way but to cope with it.  But fluctuating asymmetry tend to create insecurities and other mental woes.

Also Read: People under 30 are more prone to depression

Fluctuating Asymmetry: A detailed description

Fluctuating Asymmetry is the small, random deviations from perfect bilateral symmetry.

Firstly, Environmental stresstors can cause this deviation. Secondl, developmental instability too can cause FA. Thirdly, genetic problems during development can also result in FA.

But, the greater the pressure the higher is the degree of asymmetry.

Also Read: Human constitution and behavior

Causes of Fluctuating Asymmetry

FA is a result of developmental stress and instability. Further, Environmental and genetic stressors are the underlying causes. Environmental factors include diet, climate and toxins. Genetic aspects are aneuploidy, heterozygosity and inbreeding.

Measuring Fluctuating Asymmetry

You can Measure Fluctuating asymmetry (FA)

Mean FA = mean value of left sides – mean value of right sides.

The closer the value is to zero, the lower is the level of FA.

Thus, indicating more symmetrical features.

This calculation shall take into account different traits of the individual. It helps in getting an accurate measure of the individual’s developmental stability.

Impact of Fluctuating Asymmetry

Researches have established multiple impacts of FA. The number reveals developmental stability and genetic fitness of an individual. FA also has an impact on mate attraction and sexual selection. Developmental stability and human physical health are associated with FA.

Studies say that people with greater FA report more medical conditions. In addition to that, factors like intelligence and personality traits are also linked to FA. 

Also Read: Ayurvedic Treatment for depression

1. Richer the FA, Poorer the health 

Research linked higher FA to poorer physical health. Individuals with higher levels of FA report a greater number of medical conditions. A study revealed high FA results in higher body mass index (BMI) in women, and lower BMI in men. 

High FA can also lead to higher number of respiratory infections. It also makes one susceptible to parasitic infections and weak immunity.  In men, higher levels of FA can cause higher levels of oxidative stress. 

2. FA affecting Mental health 

Higher levels of FA can result in increased mental hazards. It can lead to higher levels of schizotypy and Depression. Men with higher facial asymmetry experienced higher levels of depression than women. 

3. FA a parameter of attraction

People with a high fluctuating asymmetry often suffer from inferiority complex. Symmetry is an important aesthetic aspect for many. Various studies noted that people with low FA are more attractive. It is also found that men with higher FA have higher levels of oxidative stress and lower levels of attractiveness. 

Research showed that female who mated men with lower FA experience a higher number of orgasms. Facial symmetry has been positively correlated with higher occurrences of mating.

4. FA and Intelligence

Fluctuating asymmetry was also negatively linked to intelligence parameters and memory. Individuals showing greater asymmetry have lower IQ scores. 

However, there is also a portion of studies that shows no correlations between FA and intelligence. 

5. Dealing with Fluctuating Asymmetry

Dealing with fluctuating asymmetry is more of a mental battle for many. Though there are some associations with physical health and cognitive functionalities, for most it is an issue of self-image.

Some of the simplest and low-cost ways to deal with FA are – 

• Acceptance – Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder. It does not matter how you look. Your personality and behaviour play a bigger role here.
• Experiment – Explore your options available. Be it a different styling of the hair or a new type of bra. Keep checking the trends and innovations that you can adapt without hurting your budget.
• Ignorance – When you stand out in the crowd, there is a fair chance of being bullied. The only way to turn them off is by not letting their words hurt the heart!

Conclusion

Fluctuating Asymmetry is a major cause of inferiority complex in terms of appeal and attraction. Becuase of FA Many people especially women suffers from depression and other mental woes.

One of the most preferred ways to deal with this is going under the knife. Correcting the asymmetry with surgery. But for those who can’t afford such extravaganza, they seek for alternate options.

But I would suggest, endure what you can’t cure.

FA is not a disease. Neither it has grave consequences. So, if you are able to convince your mind, your FA is cured. In other words, acceptance is the best way to deal with FA. More than appearance it is the attitude that matters. Once you are able to see your unique beauty, FA won’t be a nagging problem!