Static Suspension
Facial palsy, marked by weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles, frequently results in facial asymmetry both at rest and during various facial expressions.
What Is Static Suspension?
Static suspension is a surgical treatment for facial palsy aimed at improving facial symmetry and function by repositioning and supporting the affected facial muscles. Unlike dynamic procedures that restore muscle movement, static suspension focuses on creating a more balanced and natural appearance of the face at rest. Here’s an overview of the procedure:
- Purpose: To reduce facial drooping and improve symmetry, providing support to the paralyzed side of the face.
- Procedure: Surgeons use sutures, fascia (connective tissue), or other materials to lift and suspend the drooping facial tissues. These materials are anchored to stable structures such as the skull or other muscles.
- Results: The procedure helps to elevate the corners of the mouth, reduce drooping of the cheek and eyelid, and improve overall facial contour.
- Candidates: Ideal for patients with long-term or permanent facial paralysis who may not benefit from dynamic procedures like nerve grafting or muscle transfers.
Static suspension is often combined with other treatments to enhance overall facial function and appearance. The goal is to achieve a more symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing result, improving the patient’s quality of life.
Benefits of Static Suspension
Static suspension for facial palsy offers several benefits aimed at improving facial symmetry, appearance, and overall quality of life. Here are some of the key benefits:
- Improved Facial Symmetry: By repositioning and supporting the drooping facial tissues, static suspension helps achieve a more balanced and symmetrical facial appearance, reducing the asymmetry caused by facial palsy.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appearance: Elevating the corners of the mouth and reducing the drooping of the cheek and eyelid can significantly improve the facial contour, leading to a more natural and pleasing look.
- Functional Improvements: Although static suspension does not restore muscle movement, it can improve certain functions, such as reducing drooling and improving speech and eating by better aligning the lips and cheeks.
- Increased Confidence and Self-Esteem: The aesthetic and functional improvements often lead to increased confidence and a better sense of self-esteem for patients who may have been self-conscious about their appearance due to facial palsy.
- Durability: Static suspension provides long-term support to the facial tissues, maintaining the improvements in facial symmetry and appearance over time.
- Combination with Other Treatments: Static suspension can be used alongside other treatments, such as facial reanimation surgeries or physical therapy, to enhance overall outcomes and provide a comprehensive approach to managing facial palsy.
Overall, static suspension is a valuable option for patients seeking to improve the cosmetic and functional impacts of facial palsy, especially when other dynamic treatments may not be suitable or effective.
Fascia Lata Suspension
One of the main static suspension procedures is fascia lata suspension. This surgery, performed under general anesthesia in an operating room, typically takes about 90 minutes. Fascia lata suspension is particularly effective for improving resting facial symmetry and addressing specific areas of concern, including:
- Corner of the Mouth: The procedure helps re-suspend the corner of the mouth, reducing asymmetry at rest.
- Philtrum: The vertical indentation in the middle of the upper lip, known as the philtrum, is addressed to achieve a more harmonious appearance.
- Nasolabial Fold: Also known as laugh lines or smile lines, the nasolabial fold can be improved, enhancing overall facial balance.
- Base of the Nose: The surgery also targets the base of the nose, further enhancing facial balance. The procedure involves making two one-inch incisions on the outer thigh to harvest a piece of tensor fascia lata (TFL), a thick band of tissue ideal for suspending facial tissues. Using the patient’s own tissue (autologous), this method minimizes the risk of infection and complications.
The harvested fascia is then meticulously positioned around the mouth to re-suspend the targeted facial areas. Once the fascia is sutured into place, the incisions are closed, and small drains are inserted—one in the leg and one in the face. These drains are usually removed the next morning before discharge. The absorbable stitches in the face dissolve within 14-21 days post-surgery.
Your Recovery
Recovery time following fascia lata suspension surgery involves several stages and varies among patients. Initially, patients stay in the hospital overnight for observation and drain removal. Drains placed in the leg and face are typically removed the next morning before discharge. During the first two weeks, patients can expect swelling and bruising around the surgical sites, which gradually improve. Pain is managed with prescribed medications, and activity is restricted to facilitate healing.
Between two to four weeks post-surgery, absorbable stitches in the face will dissolve, eliminating the need for stitch removal. Patients attend regular follow-up visits with their surgeon to monitor healing. Significant improvement in facial symmetry and appearance becomes noticeable as swelling continues to subside over one to three months. Patients can gradually resume normal activities, though heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided until cleared by the surgeon.
Complete healing and final results may take several months, with facial tissues continuing to settle into their new positions. Any scars from the surgery will fade over time, becoming less noticeable. Overall, recovery from fascia lata suspension surgery requires patience and adherence to post-operative care instructions to achieve the best possible outcomes, with regular communication with the healthcare team being essential for addressing any issues and ensuring a smooth recovery process.
Why Choose Us?
When seeking expertise in facial palsy treatment in New York City, Norelle Health stands out. Led by Dr. Rakhna Araslanova, a renowned leader in the field, the center offers unparalleled experience and dedication. Dr. Araslanova has significantly advanced facial nerve surgery. Her compassionate, patient-centered approach and commitment to honesty about outcomes ensure the highest level of care. With an international reputation and a focus on delivering time-tested results, Norelle Health is a top choice for facial palsy treatment.