Abstract
Facial paralysis is a devastating condition, encompassing a spectrum of disorders,
with resultant psychosocial, functional, and aesthetic sequelae. With this in mind,
an individualized treatment approach based on the cause, pattern, and duration of
palsy is necessary. Treatment options include pharmacologic agents, corneal protective
interventions, physical therapy, and surgical procedures. The use of steroids and
antivirals in the setting of idiopathic facial paralysis or virus-associated facial
paralysis is well supported. Despite the diversity of surgical interventions described,
there is a lack of consensus regarding optimal treatment. This article provides an
overview of the current management of facial paralysis. Medical, surgical, and physical
treatment options are discussed with a review of the relevant literature.
Keywords
facial paralysis - facial reanimation - synkinesis - smile dysfunction - modified
selective neurectomy - botulinum toxin
