Current Treatments and Future Directions for Facial Paralysis.

Abstract

Facial palsy is a condition that affects the facial nerve, the seventh of the twelve cranial nerves. Its main function is to control the muscles of facial expression. This involves the ability to express emotion through controlling the position of the mouth, the eyebrow, nostrils, and eye closure. The facial nerve also plays a key role in maintaining the posture of the mouth and as such, people with facial paralysis often have problems with drooling, speech, and dental hygiene. Due to the devastating effects on the quality of life of individuals with facial palsy, there are a multitude of various treatment options for the paralyzed face. This article reviews current management strategies, and points towards promising future directions for research in the field of facial reanimation.