Facial Filler in Facial Paralysis: A Prospective Case Study and Multidimensional Assessment.

Area of Science:

• Plastic Surgery
• Dermatology
• Facial Reanimation

Background:

• Facial filler injections are an emerging nonsurgical option for correcting static asymmetry in facial paralysis (FP).
• Understanding the patient experience is crucial for effective preprocedure counseling and education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the patient experience with facial filler injections for facial paralysis.
• To assess the impact of facial fillers on facial symmetry, pain, and quality of life.

Main Methods:

• Prospective study of patients receiving hyaluronic acid filler for FP.
• Assessed patient-reported pain, facial symmetry (VAS), and quality of life (FACE-Q, PHQ-9, EQ5D) pre- and postprocedure.

Main Results:

• Twenty patients completed the study, reporting minimal pain postprocedure.
• Significant improvements were observed in patient-perceived facial symmetry, FACE-Q satisfaction with facial appearance (SFA), and psychosocial distress (PSD).
• Depression (PHQ-9) and anxiety/depression domains of EQ5D scores decreased post-treatment.

Conclusions:

• Facial filler injections for FP are associated with minimal morbidity, including low pain and few complications.
• Hyaluronic acid fillers significantly enhance psychosocial well-being and facial appearance in FP patients.