Botulinum toxin in the treatment of sequelae of facial palsy: Dermatologist's practice

Abstract

The application of botulinum toxin to patients with sequelae of Bell's palsy is a beneficial adjuvant therapy for the reduction of synkinesia and facial asymmetries. Bell's palsy is the most common cause of facial nerve paralysis. After the paralysis phase of the facial muscles, the condition may evolve with facial asymmetry and synkinesia. In the treatment of synkinesia, punctual injections into the orbicularis and platysma muscles relieve the spasms. Selective application to the unaffected hemiface aims to reduce facial asymmetry and its negative social impact, with improved quality of life.