ABSTRACT
Facial paralysis may originate from a broad list of acquired or congenital aetiologies ranging from an isolated single branch palsy to a complete bilateral palsy. Operative concepts and techniques should be adapted to the underlying cause of the palsy and the affected branches. The other important aspects of management include the duration of facial palsy, remaining muscle functionality and patient’s age. The treatment must be tailored specifically to the needs of each patient. The approach to the management of any patient with facial paralysis should be based on subunits: forehead, eyes, and mid- and lower face. Timing of surgery will vary greatly depending on the aetiology of the facial palsy and age of the patient. The facial nerve can be damaged at different levels and the determination of the exact location of injury is important for decision making. Synkinesis is a frequent long-term complication of facial nerve paralysis.
