How Effective is Mewing?
One of the most frequent questions about this technique is: how effective is mewing? On this page, we analyze the real effectiveness of mewing based on available scientific evidence, case studies, and documented results.
We separate facts from fiction to offer you a balanced perspective on what you can really expect from mewing, depending on your age, consistency, and individual factors.
Scientific Evidence
Studies Supporting Mewing
- Influence of tongue posture: Studies have shown that tongue position can influence the development of the upper maxilla, especially during growth.
- Benefits of nasal breathing: Research confirms that nasal breathing is healthier than mouth breathing and can positively influence facial development.
- Effects of chewing: Studies in populations with harder diets show better facial development and fewer malocclusion problems.
Limitations of the Evidence
- Scarcity of specific studies: There are few controlled studies that specifically examine 'mewing' as it is currently practiced.
- Individual variability: Results can vary significantly due to genetic factors, age, and individual anatomy.
- Difficulty isolating variables: It's difficult to determine if observed changes are due exclusively to mewing or to other factors.
- Selection bias: Many 'success cases' may not be representative of the general population.
Factors That Influence Effectiveness
Age
Children (up to 12 years)
Effectiveness: High - Active facial growth allows for significant changes. Results can be notable in months or a few years.
Teenagers (13-18 years)
Effectiveness: Moderate to High - There is still facial growth, allowing for appreciable changes with consistent practice.
Adults (19+ years)
Effectiveness: Limited - Changes are more subtle and slow, primarily in soft tissues and muscle tone.
Consistency and Technique
The effectiveness of mewing is directly related to consistency and correct technique:
Occasional Practice
Effectiveness: Very Low - Practicing mewing only occasionally or for short periods is unlikely to produce visible results.
Consistent Practice
Effectiveness: Moderate - Practicing correctly for most of the day, every day, can produce gradual changes over time.
Individual Anatomy
Initial facial structure and genetic factors play a crucial role:
- People with more elongated faces may notice more evident changes than those with wider faces.
- Genetics sets limits on how much bone structure can change, especially in adults.
- Factors such as body weight can influence how visible mewing results are.
Realistic Results by Area
| Facial Area | Change Potential | Estimated Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jawline | Moderate | 6-12 months | Improvement mainly through muscle tone and posture in adults |
| Upper maxilla | Low to Moderate | 1-3 years | Greater potential in young people; minimal changes in adults |
| Cheekbones | Low | 1+ years | Mainly changes in appearance due to better posture |
| Double chin/Submental | Moderate to High | 3-6 months | Area that tends to show faster improvements |
| Facial symmetry | Low | 1+ years | Subtle improvements possible with very consistent practice |
| Breathing/Function | High | 1-3 months | Functional improvements usually precede aesthetic changes |
Myths vs. Reality
Myth: Mewing can dramatically change facial structure in adults
Reality: In adults, bone changes are minimal. Visible improvements are usually due to changes in muscle tone, posture, and facial fat reduction, not significant bone remodeling.
Myth: Mewing produces quick results
Reality: Mewing is a gradual process that requires months or years to show notable changes. 'Quick' transformations seen online often involve changes in lighting, angle, weight, or even photo editing.
Reality: Mewing can improve breathing and posture
Regardless of aesthetic changes, mewing promotes nasal breathing and better posture, which can have benefits for overall health, sleep quality, and respiratory function.
Reality: Consistency is crucial
Mewing results are directly related to consistency. Practicing occasionally will not produce significant changes. Mewing must become an automatic habit to see real results.
Want to try mewing with realistic expectations?
Now that you understand how effective mewing really is, you can begin your practice with appropriate expectations and an informed approach.