Options for lower left side facial nerve damage since birth (had Botox & filler)? (Photos)

Question

Hello! :) In first photo, I'm due for Botox to my lower R side to correct asymmetry r/t nerve damage on L side. Is more pronounced when Botox has fully worn off. I get Botox in several areas of face & have started filler. I don't mind maintaining Botox/filler to mid/upper face, BUT filler to soften worsening jowls & botox for nerve damage that lasts only 2.5 mos is getting $$. Would a mini or SMAS facelift be more cost effective in the long run& could I still be a candidate despite nerve damage?

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

Thank you for your question and sharing your photographs. It is not really possible to do a proper diagnosis of your concerns in the photos. 
The treatment with botulinum toxin is the most common solution for your problem and this is because of a variety of limitations for other treatments.
If you would like to explore the option of an end-to-side nerve graft from the strong side to the muscles on the weaker side, I would suggest contacting Dr Fausto Viterbo in Brazil as he has experience with end to side nerve grafting which is fed into the muscles on the weaker side. 
The exact evaluation for possible success rate is complex and depends on many factors, so I would suggest first a virtual consultation to simplify the decision process.
The cross-facial grafting can be done as part of a face lift intervention if deemed to be an appropriate indication.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

It is impossible to evaluate extent of your palsy based on photos; it seems to be rather limited, considering that you can accomplish improvement with Botox only?. Two sides of the face, paralyzed and normal, behave very different after face lift and may need more frequent educements with skin tightening then normal face lifts. In your current age, attempt of cross facial nerve grafting will not create much difference. In person consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon, face lift expert, who had some experience treating patient like you, is recommended. Good luck.

Options for lower left side facial nerve damage since birth (had Botox & filler)? (Photos)

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Options for lower left side facial nerve damage since birth (had Botox & filler)? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about SMAS Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.