Facial paralysis

Abstract

Facial paralysis produces significant functional, aesthetic, and emotional problems. Craniofacial surgeons may find the management of facial paralysis confusing, partly because of the myriad of surgical options presented in the literature. The use of an algorithmic approach in facial paralysis allows the surgeon to evaluate patients in a systematic fashion, thereby facilitating treatment planning. The use of treatment algorithms in facial paralysis is neither new (1,2,3,4,5), nor intended to replace thoughtful consideration of the many options in restoring function to the paralyzed face; rather, it is intended to guide the physician to an optimized treatment plan. Despite decades of advancement, there remains room for improvement in the treatment of these patients. Better muscle transfer techniques, adjunctive measures to enhance reinnervation, clinical outcome measures, and tissue engineering alternatives will all play a role in improving the care of these unfortunate patients.