Delayed Facial Nerve Palsy After Open Reduction of an Isolated Zygomaticomaxillary Complex Fracture

Facial nerve paralysis is a devastating complication which can occur after a variety of otolaryngic procedures, including facial trauma repair. The frontal and marginal branches are most often placed at risk. However, facial nerve paralysis is not typically described as a risk in most uncomplicated facial trauma repairs of the zygomaticomaxillary complex (ZMC). In particular, buccal branch injury has not been described in a delayed setting following repair of the ZMC. The authors present a patient of delayed buccal branch paralysis following a simple ZMC repair which has not been previously reported.The diagnosis, clinical course, and management strategies for delayed facial nerve paralysis in the setting of a ZMC repair are discussed. This rare complication after facial trauma repair should be discussed with patients as a possible complication.