Another effective surgical approach to facial paralysis: temporalis muscle flap transfer repair

Surgical treatment of facial paralysis is currently a worldwide problem, so many methods have been developed, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Currently, there are two surgical methods that I use: free muscle grafting and temporalis muscle flap transfer. The former is currently the best international restoration method, but the procedure is a bit tedious and has a 1-2% failure rate. The latter is simpler and is indicated for patients who do not undergo the former procedure. For the former, see my other article on the typical experience of a patient with facial paralysis. The following describes the temporalis muscle flap transfer repair. In my experience, this procedure does not allow for complete symmetry between the two faces (there is no way to achieve complete symmetry at this time), but happily both are satisfactory, and the procedure is simple enough to be done in a single session, as is currently being worked out. People with facial paralysis have two main complaints: asymmetry of the smile and inability to close the eyes. This procedure addresses both. We have gradually improved the procedure. In the original method, cutting the temporal muscle flap left a temporal depression, so a one-time filler would be good. Many older patients with facial paralysis have significant facial sagging. During the procedure, we will address the sagging and lift the face in a single step, which will greatly improve the results of the surgery. It is important to note that unlike traditional surgery, the pathway we transfer is through the deep face of the zygomatic arch, so there is no facial bloat. Due to privacy and portrait rights, I am unable to post pictures, which can be shared in my clinic!