Why Is My Face So Round?

A round face can result from several factors. Often, it's due to fat accumulation in the cheeks and sides of the face. This fat buildup can be so significant that your ears become less visible from the front. Fat deposits in the sides of your skull also contribute to a rounder appearance. Another factor is hormonal changes, with a high release of cortisol being a known cause of what's sometimes referred to as "moon face."

• Weight Gain: Overall weight gain leads to fat accumulation in various body parts, including the face.
• Fluid Retention: Excess fluid can cause facial puffiness, contributing to a rounder appearance.
• Hormonal Changes: Conditions affecting hormone balance, such as Cushing's syndrome (characterized by high cortisol levels), can result in a round face.
• Steroid Use: Prednisone and other corticosteroids often cause fat deposits in the facial area.
• Genetics: Facial structure and bone shape are partly determined by genetics; some people naturally have rounder faces.

Understanding "Moon Face":

The term "moon face" describes a round, puffy-looking face often caused by the accumulation of fat on the sides of the face. This is frequently linked to:

• Cortisol imbalance: High levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, can lead to fat deposition in the face.
• Steroid medication: Long-term use of corticosteroid medications is a common cause.

Several reputable sources confirm this information: Cleveland Clinic, WebMD, Medical News Today, and Healthline.