Selective neurectomies to achieve symmetry in partial and complete facial paralysis

Experience with selective facial neurectomies, in partial and total palsies, is reported. If under careful control by faradic stimulation the area to be weakened is conpletely, and the neighbouring musculature partly denervated, consistently satisfactory results can be predicted. Evidence suggests that rather than recovery of motion by axon regeneration, there is a marked tendency for collateral regeneration of peripheral facial nerve fibres from muscles left intact, into denervated muscles.