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Post-Face Lift Facial Paralysis: A 20-Year Experience
Tal Kaufman Goldberg1, Elizabeth R McGonagle1, Tessa A Hadlock1
1From the Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary.
Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
|November 28, 2023
Summary
Facial nerve injury after facelift surgery can lead to facial paralysis. Prompt assessment and appropriate management, including nerve exploration or non-surgical options, offer a favorable prognosis for recovery.
Area of Science:
- Plastic Surgery
- Neurology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Facial nerve (FN) injury is a rare but serious complication of facelift surgery.
- Limited literature details the management and outcomes of post-face lift facial paralysis (PFFP).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review a 20-year experience in managing iatrogenic PFFP.
- To analyze management strategies and outcomes for patients with PFFP.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 25 patients with PFFP (2002-2022).
- Analysis of demographic data, surgical details, facial function, management, intraoperative findings, and outcomes.
- Categorization into surgical (FN exploration/repair) and non-surgical management groups.
Main Results:
- Eight patients underwent FN exploration and repair, with 50% achieving normal facial function.
- Fourteen patients received non-surgical management (physical therapy, chemodenervation, filler therapy), with 50% achieving normal and 42% nearly normal function.
- Prognosis is favorable, dependent on injury type, location, and timely treatment.
Conclusions:
- PFFP outcomes are favorable and depend on accurate assessment and treatment.
- FN exploration is indicated for suspected nerve transection.
- Non-surgical management and observation are suitable for specific patient groups.
- Facial nerve centers may offer superior outcomes for FN exploration.
