Turkish Journal of Geriatrics 2007 , Vol 10, Issue 2
STATIC FACIAL REANIMATION FOR ELDERLY PATIENTS
Ankara Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Kulak Burun Boğaz ve Baş Boyun Cerrahisi, ANKARA Introduction: The purpose of this study was to present static facial reanimation procedure that were performed for the patients with permenant unilateral facial paralysis and to comment on the indications and long term results of this treatment modality.

Materials and Method: The patients who have permenant peripheral facial paralysis due to total parotidectomy with radical neck dissection were included in the study. The treatment of choice for all patients was facial suspension with autologous fascia lata and gold-weight implant to upper eyelid. The oral and ocular sphincteric functions and symmetry of the face were evaluated postoperatively.

Results: Patients were followed up between 6-52 (average: 35.16) months. The corners of the mouth were at the same level in all patients while all of them could close their eyes at the last visit.

Conclusion: Static facial reanimation is an effective treatment option with minimal morbidity for the patients with permenant peripheral facial paralysis that could not be treated by dynamic surgical procedures or for those who are not suitable candidates for dynamic procedures. Keywords : Facial paralysis, Facial reanimation, Gold-weight implant, Elderly