Facial reanimation surgery (Smile Surgery) is the process of surgically correcting facial paralysis, congenital or acquired through trauma or disease. The procedures are categorized as either dynamic or static:
1. Dynamic Facial Reanimation for Facial Paralysis
- Dynamic facial reanimation procedures provide the best functional and cosmetic results for the paralyzed face by local muscle transfer or by nerve grafting and free muscle transfer. The dynamic smile reconstruction procedures restore the facial nerve activity.
2. Static Facial Surgery for Facial Paralysis
- Static facial procedures suspend the soft tissue structures of the face, but they do not provide facial reanimation. They are often used in conjunction with facial reanimation procedures to improve facial symmetry. Static reconstruction may involve upper and lower lip shortening or lip thickening to restore an attractive labial contour and the volume relationship between the upper and lower lips.
Dynamic Facial Reanimation Surgery for Facial Paralysis
Dynamic facial reanimation procedures that the Craniofacial Team of Texas will use when planning your facial reanimation surgery include:
- Muscle transfers by moving muscles and tendons from one part of your body (legs or abdomen) to your face.
- Nerve grafting procedures require moving nerves from different parts of the body to the face to assure that you will have more movement and sensation in your face, allowing you to better control the muscles.
Contact the Craniofacial Team of Texas to learn more about facial reanimation.
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