Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2026
Single-stage Dynamic Reanimation of the Smile in Irreversible Facial Paralysis by Free Functional Muscle Transfer
Published on: March 1, 2015
Technique evolution for facial paralysis reconstruction using functioning free muscle transplantation--experience of
1Department of Plastic Surgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Chang Gung University, 199 Tung Hwa North Road, Taipei, Taiwan 105, Taiwan. deardavid@pchome.com.tw
Abstract:
The author performed facial reanimation by using functioning free muscle transplantation in 116 cases from 1986 to 2000. Three consecutive five-year periods are presented in relation to each stage of the author's technical improvement. The first five years bulkiness and asymmetrical smiling with weak gum exposure were encountered and required correction. The second five years was a period of technical improvement, but with residual deformities. The third five-year period was one of technique refinement. The author extended the utility of the gracilis for different and more challenged problems, such as the use of a muscle plus skin two-unit composite flap connected by the septoperforator nutrients, not only for facial reanimation but also for intra-oral contracture release or extra-oral facial soft tissue and skin deficits replacement.
